© Photo by United Nations Development Programme via Flickr
International Peace & Security Section
Rwanda: Ends Diplomatic Ties with Belgium as Relations Worsen over Conflict in Congo
South Sudan: At Least 19 Killed in Airstrike by South Sudan’s Airforce
Lebanon-Syria: Ceasefire Agreed After Two Days of Cross-Border Clashes
Syria: EU and Partners Pledge €5.8 Billion to Aid Syria’s Recovery
Peru: Declares State of Emergency in Lima Amidst Escalating Violence
Gaza: Hostilities and Renewed Bombardments Escalate Displacements
Haiti: UN Reports Record Number of Displacements Due to Gang Violence
Colombia: UN Calls on Government to Protect Civilians from Escalating Armed Conflict
Indonesia: New Legal Amendment Expanding Military Role in Civilian Affairs Sparks Protests
Australia: Pro-Palestine Group Challenges Australia’s Anti-Protest Laws
On 17 March 2025, it was reported that the Palestine Action Group filed a constitutional challenge in the Supreme Court of New South Wales against new laws restricting protests near places of worship. The group argues that the laws, introduced by NSW Premier Chris Minns, violate democratic rights and disproportionately target pro-Palestine demonstrators. The Crimes Amendment (Places of Worship) Bill 2025, passed in February, expands police powers to issue move-on orders and imposes penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment. The legislation follows an incident involving a caravan containing explosives and antisemitic material, which authorities linked to a terrorist scheme. Minns has also introduced broader hate speech laws in response to rising antisemitism. Critics, including the Human Rights Law Centre of Australia, argue that the law undermines the right to peaceful assembly and could be used to suppress dissent. The challenge has gained support from civil society and trade unions, who warn it threatens protest rights beyond the Palestine movement.
ECtHR: Court Rules Türkiye Violated Fair Trial Rights in Terrorism Case
On 18 March 2025, the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) ruled that Türkiye violated the right to a fair trial in convicting journalist Mustafa Aydın of membership in an armed terrorist organisation. The court found that the İzmir trial court failed to provide sufficient reasoning for its verdict and did not properly assess the proportionality of the sentence, violating Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Aydın, a correspondent for Dicle News Agency, was arrested in 2008 during a crackdown on the Patriotic Democratic Youth Movement, linked to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). Prosecutors cited a printout found in another suspect’s home referring to “Mustafa A.” and Aydın’s calls to Roj TV, a broadcaster aligned with the PKK. Aydın denied any connection to terrorism, maintaining he was targeted for his journalism. Convicted in 2014 and sentenced to six years, Aydın unsuccessfully appealed to Türkiye’s Court of Cassation and Constitutional Court. The ECtHR ultimately ruled in his favour, highlighting deficiencies in the domestic courts’ reasoning and Türkiye’s broader misuse of counterterrorism laws against journalists and activists.
South Korea: Braces for Impeachment Verdict on President Yoon
On 19 March 2025, it was reported that thousands protested in Seoul on 15 March 2025, both supporting and opposing impeached President Yoon Seok Yeol, as the Constitutional Court prepared to rule on his impeachment, which was due to be given on 14 March 2025. Pro-Yoon demonstrators waved South Korean and U.S. flags calling for his exoneration, while opponents demanded his removal. The case follows Yoon’s controversial martial law declaration on 4 December 2024, which parliament swiftly overturned, leading to his impeachment two weeks later. The Constitutional Court, which must decide within 180 days under Article 65 of the South Korean Constitution, has been reviewing the case for 91 days. The court now has eight justices, resolving concerns over judicial vacancies. The verdict is expected to deepen national divisions.
UN: Independent Inquiry Finds Russia Committed Crimes against Humanity
On 19 March 2025, the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine has determined that Russian authorities’ widespread and systematic enforced disappearances of Ukrainian civilians constitute crimes against humanity. The Commission’s report reveals that Russian forces detained numerous civilians—including local officials, civil servants, and journalists—in areas under their control. Many of these individuals were transferred to detention facilities in occupied Ukrainian regions or deported to Russia, where they faced torture and sexual violence. Numerous victims have been missing for extended periods, with their families left in distressing uncertainty regarding their fate. The Commission concluded that these enforced disappearances were executed as part of a coordinated state policy, thereby amounting to crimes against humanity. The report also highlighted that Russian authorities consistently failed to provide information about the victims to their families, exacerbating their anguish. Additionally, the Commission reaffirmed that Russian personnel, particularly from the Federal Security Service, committed or ordered acts of torture during various stages of detention, especially during interrogations. These findings underscore the urgent need for accountability and justice for the victims and their families, as well as the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law to protect civilians in conflict zones.
US: Trump Withdraws US Support for Russian Crimes Investigations
On 19 March 2025, the Trump administration withdrew US support from key international efforts investigating alleged Russian war crimes in Ukraine, prompting concern from lawmakers and human rights advocates. This includes pulling out of the International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine (ICPA) in The Hague, where the US had been the only non-European country contributing a senior prosecutor. Officials cited resource constraints and shifting priorities for the decision. Additionally, the administration has terminated a Yale University-led program that tracked Russia’s mass abduction of Ukrainian children—estimated to be over 30,000. This move has led to the loss of critical satellite data and documentation efforts, undermining accountability and hindering potential future prosecutions. Lawmakers, including Democrat Greg Landsman, have urged the administration to reverse the decision and impose sanctions on those responsible for the deportations. The US Department of Justice’s War Crimes Accountability Team (WarCAT), which had been helping Ukrainian prosecutors charge Russian perpetrators, has also scaled back its involvement. While European institutions continue these efforts, the US withdrawal has raised alarm about weakening international resolve to hold Russia accountable. Critics fear the moves could send the wrong message to perpetrators of war crimes and undermine global justice mechanisms.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0rzygdn8w2o
Syria: Authorities Arrest Former Commander for War Crimes During Civil War
On 20 March 2025, Syrian authorities arrested Bashar Mahfoud, a former commander in the Assad regime’s 25th Division, on charges related to war crimes, kidnappings, and robberies. Mahfoud played a key role in the division’s operations during the Syrian civil war, where the unit was accused of widespread human rights abuses, including torture, field executions, and the destruction of civilian property—particularly in restive regions like Homs, Hama, and the Damascus countryside. He also led recruitment and assault groups targeting areas with strong anti-regime protests. Following the decline of Assad’s control in certain regions, the 25th Division reportedly devolved into a criminal network, with Mahfoud allegedly leading activities such as armed robbery and abduction. His arrest in Damascus is being interpreted by some as a step toward addressing rampant organised crime, while others view it as a rare instance of potential accountability for war-era atrocities. Local activists and residents have welcomed the arrest, calling for Mahfoud to be prosecuted transparently and for victims to be allowed to testify. They are also urging for an international investigation into the 25th Division’s crimes. The case underscores Syria’s ongoing struggle with impunity and the need for justice in the post-conflict landscape.
https://www.newarab.com/news/syria-arrests-assad-commander-accused-war-crimes-robberies
Israel: Human Rights Group Accuses Israeli Military of War Crimes against Hospitals
On 20 March 2025, Human Rights Watch (HRW) accused the Israeli military of committing war crimes by attacking and occupying hospitals in Gaza. These actions have severely disrupted Gaza’s already fragile healthcare system, leading to numerous civilian casualties. HRW’s investigations revealed that Israeli forces targeted medical facilities, personnel, and transport, resulting in significant loss of life and hindering medical services. The organisation emphasised that, despite Israeli claims of Hamas using hospitals for military purposes, no substantial evidence has been provided to justify such attacks. HRW called for independent investigations, highlighting that even if hospitals were misused, attacking them without ensuring proportionality and distinction violates international humanitarian law. The situation has led to a humanitarian crisis, with hospitals running out of essential supplies and being unable to provide adequate care. The World Health Organization reported that at least 521 people, including 16 medical workers, have been killed in 137 attacks on healthcare facilities as of 12 November 2025. These developments have drawn international condemnation, with various organisations urging immediate cessation of hostilities and protection for civilians and healthcare workers. HRW’s findings underscore the urgent need for accountability and adherence to international laws protecting medical facilities and personnel in conflict zones. The organisation has called on Israeli authorities to cease unlawful attacks on hospitals and for independent bodies, such as the International Criminal Court, to investigate these actions as potential war crimes.
Australia: Man Convicted Under New Counterterrorism Laws for Sharing Extremist Content Online
On 20 March 2025, a 19-year-old man was convicted and sentenced to three years in prison by the Perth District Court for sharing Islamic State beheading videos online. This marks the first conviction under Australia’s new counterterrorism laws, enacted in January 2024. Authorities found violent extremist content on the man’s phone, including videos, audio recordings, and discussions inciting violence. The offence falls under section 474.45B of the Criminal Code, which criminalises using online services to share violent extremist material, carrying a maximum five-year sentence. Following the conviction, Australia’s eSafety Commissioner issued legal notices to major tech companies, including Google and Meta, demanding transparency on their efforts to curb terrorist content. The Commissioner emphasised the need for accountability in protecting users from extremist material. Legal experts stress the importance of balancing free speech with preventing radicalisation. The Law Council of Australia highlighted that prosecutions should be proportionate and in the public interest. Meanwhile, some social media companies, such as Meta, have recently relaxed content moderation policies while still targeting extreme violations like terrorism-related content.
Rwanda: Ends Diplomatic Ties with Belgium as Relations Worsen over Conflict in Congo
On 17 March 2025, the Rwandan foreign ministry announced it was ending diplomatic ties with Belgium amid deteriorating relations between the two countries. Belgium has expressed concerns about Rwanda’s support for the M23 rebels who are fighting in eastern Congo. The Rwandan foreign ministry said all Belgian diplomats must leave Rwanda within 48 hours. They added this move would “safeguard” its national interests. Rwanda claims that Belgium has taken sides in the conflict and “continues to systematically mobilise against Rwanda in different forums.” Belgian Foreign Minister, Maxime Prévot, said Rwanda’s decision was “disproportionate” and in response said Rwandan diplomats were no longer welcome in Belgium. Prévot added that all governmental cooperation agreements between the countries would be terminated. Rwanda has received criticism for its support of the M23 rebels, who in recent months have led an offensive in Congo, seizing the two largest cities of Goma and Bukavu in the eastern part of the country. Thousands have been killed in the conflict, while hundreds of thousands have been displaced. Belgium also accused Rwanda of undermining Congo’s territorial integrity. In response to the growing tensions, last month, Rwanda announced it was suspending its 2024-2029 cooperation aid programme with Belgium. On the same day the countries’ revealed the ending of diplomatic relations, the EU announced sanctions against nine people, including five from Rwanda, in connection to the conflict in Congo.
https://www.euronews.com/2025/03/17/rwanda-expels-belgian-diplomats-amid-row-over-drc-fighting
South Sudan: At Least 19 Killed in Airstrike by South Sudan’s Airforce
On 17 March 2025, it was reported an airstrike by South Sudan’s air force had killed at least 19 people in the town of Nasir, in the eastern part of the country near the Ethiopian border. This comes just two weeks after government forces withdrew from the region following intense fighting. The recent clashes in Nasir were between national forces and the White Army, a group of ethnic Nuer youths, which has heightened tensions in the region and led to fears the 2013-2018 civil war could reignite. The government claims the White Army rebels are associated with First Vice President Riek Machar, an ethnic Nuer, and accuses them of working with his party. The White Army fought alongside Machar’s forces during the civil war against the ethnic Dinka fighters loyal to President Salva Kiir. Mackar’s party denies any involvement. Kang Wan, a community leader in Nasir, said the airstrike occurred late on Sunday night, with the death toll currently at 19. On 7 March, 27 soldiers were killed in Nasir, including a South Sudanese general, when a UN helicopter came under attack. Nasir County Commissioner, James Gatluak Lew, an ally of Machar, said the airstrike on Sunday night by the South Sudanese armed forces was likely revenge for the helicopter attack. Last week, Uganda deployed forces to South Sudan’s capital Juba to “secure it”. South Sudan’s Information Minister, Michael Makuei, said Ugandan forces were in the country “to back up and support the (national army) according to their needs.”
Lebanon-Syria: Ceasefire Agreed After Two Days of Cross-Border Clashes
On 17 March 2025, Lebanon’s Defence Minister Michel Menassa and Syrian Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra announced they had agreed a ceasefire to end two days of cross-border clashes that left 10 dead. Three soldiers in Syria’s new army were killed while seven Lebanese were killed and 52 people injured. Both defence ministers also agreed to maintain contact between army intelligence officials to prevent further deterioration at the border. Over the past three months the mountainous border region has become a hotspot for clashes after Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, an ally of Iran and Lebanese armed group Hezbollah, was overthrown by Islamist rebels who seized control of the country and established their own institutions and army. On Sunday, Syria’s defence ministry reported Hezbollah had killed three of its soldiers after the militias crossed into Syrian territory and kidnapped the Syrian soldiers. Hezbollah denied claims they were involved. A security source from Lebanon said the three Syrian soldiers had entered Lebanese territory first, where armed members of a tribe in northeastern Lebanon attacked and killed them, fearing their village was under attack. In response, Syrian soldiers shelled Lebanese border towns. On Monday, Lebanon’s army said it had handed over the bodies of the three soldiers to Syrian authorities. Maher Ziwani, the head of a Syrian army division deploying to the border, said military reinforcements were sent to the border to strengthen positions and prevent breaches in the coming days.
Syria: EU and Partners Pledge €5.8 Billion to Aid Syria’s Recovery
On 17 March 2025, at a conference organised by the EU it was announced that the EU and its partners have pledged €5.8 billion (US$6.3 billion) to the new authorities in Syria to assist with humanitarian and security challenges following the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime. The funding commitment is less than last year’s €7.5 billion in grants and loans, with EU officials referring to US aid cuts as a significant factor in the reduced figure. Since 2017, the EU has hosted the annual conference, but without the government of Assad in attendance, who was excluded due to his regime’s brutal actions during the Syrian civil war. At this year’s conference, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani was in attendance, along with ministers from European and Arab countries. EU Foreign Policy chief, Kaja Kallas, said Syria is going through challenges, as seen by the recent tragic events of violence in coastal areas. Kallas added it was also “a time of hope,” citing an agreement reached on 10 March to integrate the Kurdish-led and US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces into new state institutions. European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, said the EU was boosting its funding to Syria to almost €2.5 billion (US$2.7 billion) for 2025 and 2026, an increase of about €160 million compared to this year. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the group that ousted the Assad regime, is classified as a terrorist group by the UN. However, EU officials are keen to establish relations with the new leadership as long as they ensure the transition period is inclusive and peaceful. Achim Steiner, the head of the UN Development Programme, outlined Syria had lost 40 years of development as a result of the civil war, and it will take at least a decade to restore the country to its pre-conflict condition. The physical destruction combined with an economic crisis has sent the Syrian pound plummeting, resulting in nearly the entire population falling below the poverty line.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/syrias-new-rulers-seek-aid-boost-eu-conference-2025-03-16/
Peru: Declares State of Emergency in Lima Amidst Escalating Violence
On 18 March 2025, it was reported Peru’s President Dina Boluarte had declared a state of emergency in the capital city of Lima amid widespread violence and criminality. The emergency decree was announced on Monday and will last for 30 days. Under the measures, soldiers will be deployed on the streets and police will have the power to detain people without a judicial order. Also, some rights, including freedom of assembly will be restricted. The decision comes after a well-known singer was shot dead provoking widespread public outrage. Paul Flores, lead singer of the cumbia band Armonia 10 was killed when assailants attacked the bus he was travelling on after a concert. It is reported the band had been threatened by criminals who wanted to extort money from them. In another incident over the weekend, 11 people were injured in an explosion at a restaurant. It is expected this week the opposition politicians in Peru will discuss a vote of no confidence against Interior Minister Juan José Santiváñez, as they claim he does not have a plan to deal with the escalating violence. In recent months, Peru has seen an increase in killings and violent extortion, and authorities have repeatedly declared emergencies in parts of Lima. However, this is the first time since 2022 that all of the capital has been placed under one. The police have reported 459 people were killed from 1 January to 16 March, and 1,909 reports of extortion were recorded in January alone.
https://www.euronews.com/2025/03/18/peru-declares-state-of-emergency-after-killing-of-popular-singer
Gaza: Hostilities and Renewed Bombardments Escalate Displacements
On 19 March 2025, the Israeli Defence Force dropped leaflets over Beit Lahiya and Beit Hanoun as well as eastern Khan Younis, ordering residents once again to leave their homes. On 21 March, the UN reported that the renewed Israeli bombings in Gaza are reversing gains achieved during the brief ceasefire. According to the Director of Affairs in Gaza for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Sam Rose, most of the deaths have occurred at night, and the local Ministry of Health is reporting around 600 people killed. 200 of those were women and children. The Israeli Defence Minister reportedly issued instructions for further occupation of parts of Gaza and warned of partial annexation unless further hostages are released, said Rose. Doctors are exhausted, essential medical supplies are running low and corridors are crowded with people either in need of treatment or waiting to find out whether their loved ones will survive or not. A newly issued evacuation order from Israel will have damaging impacts on an estimated 100,000 Gazans, according to Rose. Israel also decided, yet again, on 2 March, to stop all humanitarian deliveries into the enclave. He added that if the ceasefire is not restored, it will result in large-scale loss of life, damage to infrastructure property, increased risk of infectious disease and massive trauma for the one million children and for the two million civilians who live in Gaza. This time it is worse because people are already exhausted. Families are scrambling to find shelter, but there is no safe place to go. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) warned that Israeli military operations are expanding into new areas.
https://news.un.org/en/story/2025/03/1161346
Haiti: UN Reports Record Number of Displacements Due to Gang Violence
On 19 March 2025, the UN reported that, in just one month, gang violence has forced over 60,000 people to flee their homes in Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince. The intensifying violence and displacements have long haunted the country, but the attacks in the last two months have shattered even the few remaining gang-free areas, leaving communities increasingly vulnerable. The majority have sought refuge in 48 displacement sites, including 12 newly established ones, while others rely on overstretched host families. Haiti has never experienced such a large number of displaced peoples in such a short time. Most of those displaced were already living in precarious conditions. Humanitarian agencies warn that the situation is reaching a breaking point, as the growing number of displaced peoples has stretched the available resources to the limit.
Colombia: UN Calls on Government to Protect Civilians from Escalating Armed Conflict
On 20 March 2025, UN experts urged the Colombian government to protect civilians and called on armed groups to cease attacks following an escalation of conflict in the Catatumbo region, which has caused Colombia’s largest displacement crisis in decades. Fighting between the National Liberation Army (ELN) and Frente 33 has led to 80 targeted killings, injuries, and the displacement of nearly 56,000 people, with 27,000 more confined due to insecurity. The conflict has heightened risks of violence against vulnerable groups, including indigenous communities, women, and migrants. Experts stress the need for Colombia to uphold international human rights standards and call on armed groups to end violations of humanitarian law. The conflict stems from historical disputes over land and government-backed oil expansion, which displaced the Bari indigenous group and led to the rise of armed factions. Despite the 2016 peace deal with FARC-EP, new groups like the ELN and Frente 33 have emerged, turning Catatumbo into a battleground for control over drug trafficking. The violence has resulted in disappearances, illegal land occupation, and disruptions to education due to teacher displacement.
Indonesia: New Legal Amendment Expanding Military Role in Civilian Affairs Sparks Protests
On 20 March 2025, Indonesia’s Parliament amended a law to expand the military’s role in civilian affairs, sparking nationwide protests and criticism from human rights groups. The changes to the National Armed Forces Act (Law No. 34/2004) allow active-duty officers to hold positions in more civilian institutions and extend retirement ages for military personnel. The amendments also broaden the military’s operational scope to include cyber defence and national asset protection. Critics argue the reforms undermine democratic progress since the fall of Suharto’s regime in 1998, which sought to limit military influence in governance. Human rights groups warn that military personnel in civilian roles could evade accountability, as they remain under military jurisdiction. Protests, led by student and civil society groups, have erupted across Indonesia, demanding a repeal of the amendments.
Sudan: Looting of Lifesaving Supplies Threatens Survival of Children
On 21 March 2025, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) strongly condemned the looting of vital humanitarian supplies from Al Bashair Hospital in the Sudanese capital, Khartoum, warning that the theft puts thousands of malnourished children and mothers at risk. Catherine Russel, Executive Director of UNICEF said “stealing life-saving supplies meant for malnourished children is outrageous and a direct attack on their survival”. All parties must adhere to international humanitarian law, protect civilians and ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access to those in need, she continued. The region has been struggling with severe shortages of food, medicine and other essentials. The fighting has blocked commercial and humanitarian supplies for more than three months, leaving thousands of civilians trapped amid intensified fighting. More than 4,000 people have been forced to flee.
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