. . DEMOCRATIC PARTICIPATION . .
An appeal from Mayors for Peace
Today, the global security situation is significantly in crisis. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is in its 5th year and no end is in sight. Already too many armed conflicts exist in the world and now a new one has started between the US, Israel and Iran. Many people, including civilians, are being killed and essential infrastructure is being destroyed. The tit-for-tat attacks and their escalation to hitting installations in an increasing number of countries are causing grave consequences not only for the region but also the world at large regarding political and economic security.
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How can culture of peace be developed at the municipal level?
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We are also worried that neglecting the rule of law, including the UN Charter, would lead to more and more armed conflicts. We call upon all the countries engaging in armed conflicts to immediately implement a ceasefire and restore peace and stability.
Mayors for Peace, which consists of approximately 8,600 member cities in 166 countries and regions, a global network of local government leaders committed to protecting the safety and security of their citizens, strongly demands that international disputes be resolved by diplomatic efforts through dialogue. The use of force against any country which results in the loss of innocent civilian lives, is totally unacceptable.
On behalf of Mayors for Peace, we hereby declare once again that, together with all peaceseeking people around the world, we will make every effort to achieve lasting global peace and create a world free from nuclear weapons.
MATSUI Kazumi, President of Mayors for Peace, Mayor of Hiroshima
SUZUKI Shiro, Vice President of Mayors for Peace, Mayor of Nagasaki