Today on International Conscientious Objectors’ Day, a Russian conscientious objector (CO) is calling on the UK and other European countries to grant asylum to those who refuse to fight in the war against Ukraine.
Keir Starmer has pledged to increase the UK’s military budget to 2.5% of GDP by 2027. UK politicians and military figures are already pushing the government to go further, urging increases to 3% or higher - whilst Trump is pressuring NATO members to reach 5%.
More white poppies are being ordered for schools, universities and other educational settings in the run up to Remembrance Day this year, following increased interest from students and teachers.
A highlight of this year's Proms Concerts season was a performance of the War Requiem, a large-scale work by renowned 20th Century British composer Benjamin Britten (Prom 37, Saturday 17th August).
British pacifists have called the attack by the US and UK on Houthi targets in Yemen a dangerous and irresponsible escalation in a conflict that threatens to engulf the Middle East.
Spiralling military spending. Peace campaigners under attack in Russia and Ukraine. The devastating violence in Israel and Gaza. In 2023 there has been no shortage of war and militarism for peace campaigners to resist.