War Resisters' Stories

War Profiteers' New, No 38, April 2013

On 15 April there were more than 120 actions worldwide as part of the Global Day of Action on Military Spending, an initiative coordinated by the International Peace Bureau (IPB). The day of action coincided with the annual release of SIPRI's figures on military spending. According to SIPRI, in the last year there was a slight decrease (0.5%) of the world military expenditure. However, China - the second largest spender in 2012 - increased its expenditure by 7.8 per cent ($11.5 billion). Russia - the third largest spender - increased its expenditure by 16 per cent ($12.3 billion). Annual world military spending continues at around $1.5 trillion dollars. WRI released a statement in support of the day of action, and helped to coordinate and promote activities. You can read report from the various events on this site.

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War Resisters' International is shocked and horrified by the vicious attack last week on Kosovar human rights defender Nazlie Bala. The men who lay in wait for Bala and severely beat her have not yet been identified, but presumably are those who sent her this threat: 'Please do not protect the shame.

WRI interviewed Jungmin Choi of World Without War in South Korea about the latest escalation between North and South Korea. Jungmin said that they were expecting a new escalation in the conflict following the change of leadership both in South and in North Korea, as they would both be trying to demonstrate their strength within their countries. Jungmin told us that life carries on as usual in South Korea, and that World Without War continue their work supporting conscientious objection to military service.

From 10-14 June WRI are facilitating online conversations with the New Tactics community, exploring tactics for combating the militarisation of education, public spaces, and entertainment, often focusing on vulnerable groups. This is an opportunity for teachers, students, lawyers, peace activists and others to share their successes and challenges in combating the culture of militarism in their communities.

This month, we're asking WRI friends and supporters if you'd like to be involved in our countering the militarisation of youth work, by giving a one-off donation, or by leaving a gift in your Will. Counter-recruiter and militarism analyst Oskar Castro writes about why he's considering doing the same, and why the project is so important.

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WRI statement on the Global Day of Action on Military Spending

On 15 April there were more than 120 actions worldwide as part of the Global Day of Action on Military Spending, an initiative coordinated by the International Peace Bureau (IPB). The day of action coincided with the annual release of SIPRI's figures on military spending. According to SIPRI, in the last year there was a slight decrease (0.5%) of the world military expenditure. However, China - the second largest spender in 2012 - increased its expenditure by 7.8 per cent ($11.5 billion). Russia - the third largest spender - increased its expenditure by 16 per cent ($12.3 billion). Annual world military spending continues at around $1.5 trillion dollars.