Peace and Neutrality No to War

Topic category

War and Pacification

Around the world war is causing large-scale death and destruction, forcing millions from their homes and exacerbating climate breakdown. Against this backdrop, the Transnational Institute is advancing an area of work dedicated to promoting peace through neutrality and the non-alignment of states with military alliances and powers. According to the United Nations, neutrality 'can contribute to the strengthening of international peace and security ... and can play an important role in developing peaceful, friendly and mutually beneficial relations between the countries of the world'. Neutrality is not about being passive, indifferent or inactive in the face of injustice. Rather, when states are neutral they actively oppose war and refuse to participate in divisive military alliances. This allows states to cultivate diplomatic ties while strengthening multilateralism. It also allows states to play an active, positive role in convening peace talks and mediating in conflict resolution. More neutral states means less states engaged in war.