We demand an immediate halt to hostilities in Ukraine. Norway must contribute to this, and not to an escalation of the conflict. Therefore, the Norwegian government’s decision to send weapons to Ukraine, is a serious mistake. Norway still has a reputation as a nation of peace and a country that promotes and organizes dialogue and negotiations in situations of crisis around the world. Have we now forfeited the possibility of playing this role? Let us hope it’s still possible!
We are now in a situation where the danger of a major war in Europe is present. This has to be stopped at all costs! Norway must immediately take the lead in calling for a ceasefire and real negotiations! We must advocate that the UN immediately address the issue of a peacekeeping force in the conflict area. Peace is possible if we want to! Peace is possible if everyone involved really wants it!
The basis and the principles for this, are clearly present. Namely, the UN Charter which, among other things, states in Article 2 point 3: All Members shall settle their international disputes by peaceful means in such a manner that international peace and security, and justice, are not endangered.
The Minsk agreements from 2014 and 2015 also have simple and clear proposals to a solution. If we are to have peace, the security interests of all parties must be taken into account.
We say it plainly and clearly: The people and countries of the world must now get to the point where conflicts and disagreements are resolved in other ways than with war and violence! Otherwise, the future looks bleak.
Bergen, March 2, 2022
Antikrigs-Initiativet og Internasjonal kvinneliga for fred og frihet, Bergen
(The Anti-War Initiative and the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, Bergen)
