© Photo by John Englart via Flickr
International Peace & Security Section
Myanmar: At Least 17 Children Killed After Airstrike on School
Türkiye: PKK Announces Plan to Disband and End Insurgency Against Türkiye
Saudi Arabia: Amnesty Renews Urgent Call for Release of Detained Saudi Scholar
Indonesia: Clashes Kill 18 Rebels and Two Police Officers in Indonesia’s Papua Region
US: Mexican Navy Ship Crashes into Brooklyn Bridge, Killing Two and Injuring 19
US: Michigan Judge Strikes Down Key Abortion Restrictions as Unconstitutional
On 13 May 2025, a Michigan judge struck down three longstanding abortion restrictions, including the 24-hour waiting period, ruling they violate the state constitution’s protections for reproductive freedom. Judge Sima Patel found the laws imposed undue burdens on abortion access without serving any legitimate state interest or protecting patient health. The ruling follows the 2022 passage of the Reproductive Freedom for All Act (RFFA), which enshrined abortion rights in Michigan’s constitution. Despite this, several restrictions remained in place—such as mandatory waiting periods, restrictive consent requirements, and a ban on abortion care by qualified non-physician providers. Governor Gretchen Whitmer welcomed the decision, calling the overturned laws a clear violation of reproductive rights. The court’s ruling permanently blocks enforcement of the restrictions, reinforcing Michigan’s status as a state that protects abortion access.
https://reproductiverights.org/michigan-court-strikes-down-abortion-restrictions-rffa/
Philippines: Former President Re-elected Mayor Whilst Awaiting ICC Trial
On 13 May 2025, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was re-elected as mayor of Davao City, despite being detained at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague on charges of crimes against humanity related to his controversial “war on drugs.” Duterte secured a landslide victory, receiving over 660,000 votes, significantly outpacing his closest rival. His son Sebastian was elected vice mayor, and other family members also won local positions, underscoring the enduring political influence of the Duterte family in the region. Duterte’s arrest in March 2025 followed an ICC investigation into alleged extrajudicial killings during his presidency from 2016 to 2022. The ICC has scheduled a confirmation of charges hearing for September 2025. Under Philippine law, individuals facing criminal charges can run for office unless convicted and all appeals are exhausted. Vice President Sara Duterte, his daughter, stated that discussions are underway regarding how her father might assume office while detained, with the vice mayor likely serving as acting mayor. The Duterte family’s electoral success comes amid a political rift with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., whose administration has cooperated with the ICC. Sara Duterte faces an impeachment trial in July 2025 over allegations including misuse of public funds and plotting to assassinate President Marcos and other officials. The family’s political resurgence may influence the outcome of her trial and the broader political landscape in the Philippines.
Hungary: Controversial Bill Proposed to Tighten Control Over Civil Society
On 14 May 2025, Hungarian lawmakers introduced a sweeping bill that would expand government oversight of civil society, raising alarms over democratic backsliding. The “Transparency in Public Life” bill, proposed by a member of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz party, would strengthen the powers of the Sovereignty Protection Office (SPO) to investigate and penalise organisations receiving foreign funding. The bill targets NGOs, advocacy groups, independent media, and other entities seen as challenging Hungary’s “sovereignty” or values, especially those promoting LGBTQ+ rights or gender equality. Organisations could face intrusive inspections, heavy fines, and even forced closure if found non-compliant. Critics liken the bill to Russia’s “foreign agents” law, warning it could be used to silence dissent and stifle media freedom. The European Commission has already challenged Hungary’s 2023 SPO law, citing EU rights violations. Human rights groups say the new bill further endangers freedom of expression, association, and Hungary’s democratic pluralism, treating all foreign support— even EU funding— as suspect. If passed, it would mark a significant step toward authoritarian governance in the heart of the EU.
Cameroon: Rights Group Condemns Life Sentence of Cameroonian Activist Abdu Karim Ali
On 15 May 2025, Amnesty International strongly condemned the life sentence given to Cameroonian peace activist Abdu Karim Ali by a military court, calling it a violation of justice and demanding his immediate release. Ali was arrested in 2022 without a warrant after releasing a video exposing torture by a militia leader. He was sentenced in April 2024 for “hostility against the homeland” and secession, following three years of detention. Amnesty criticises the use of a military court for trying a civilian, highlighting violations of both Cameroonian law and international human rights law, including Articles 14 and 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Ali had been promoting peaceful solutions to the Anglophone crisis, a violent conflict that began in 2016 between Cameroon’s government and separatists seeking independence for the English-speaking regions. The conflict has seen widespread human rights abuses and repression of dissent on both sides.
https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2025/05/cameroon-life-sentence-peace-activist/
UK: Controversy Over New Navy Chief’s Handling of Alleged War Crimes Reports
On 15 May 2025, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins was appointed as the First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff, marking the first time a Royal Marine has led the Royal Navy in its 500-year history. His appointment follows the suspension of Admiral Sir Ben Key amidst an investigation into alleged misconduct. Jenkins’ career includes commanding the Special Boat Service, serving as Vice-Chief of the Defence Staff, and acting as a strategic advisor within the Cabinet Office. He was also appointed Commandant General Royal Marines in November 2022. However, his promotion has attracted scrutiny due to past involvement in handling allegations of war crimes by UK special forces in Afghanistan. In 2011, Jenkins received reports of potential extrajudicial killings by SAS units but did not forward them to military police, instead storing them in a classified dossier. Additionally, a BBC Panorama investigation alleged that an officer appointed by Jenkins oversaw the rejection of UK resettlement applications from Afghan troops who had served with British special forces, potentially obstructing witnesses from participating in a public inquiry into these alleged war crimes. Despite these controversies, Defence Secretary John Healey and Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin have expressed confidence in Jenkins’ leadership. His appointment comes at a critical time for the Royal Navy, as it navigates leadership changes and ongoing investigations into past military conduct.
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/05/15/royal-marines-chief-named-head-of-navy-gen-gwyn-jenkins/
Libya: ICC Granted Authority to Investigate War Crimes
On 15 May 2025, Libya formally acknowledged the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) authority to investigate alleged war crimes committed within its borders from 2011 through 2027, despite not being a signatory to the Rome Statute. This significant development was announced by ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan, who praised Libya’s decision as a courageous step toward justice. The ICC’s investigation focuses on atrocities committed during Libya’s protracted conflict, including those by militias such as the Al Kani group in Tarhuna, where mass graves were discovered following the group’s ousting in 2020. In October 2024, the ICC unsealed arrest warrants for six individuals linked to these crimes, encompassing charges like murder, torture, and sexual violence. Prosecutor Khan has emphasised the importance of collaboration between the ICC and Libyan authorities to ensure accountability and justice for victims. The ICC aims to complete its investigative phase by the end of 2025, with plans to issue further arrest warrants as necessary. This move marks a pivotal moment in Libya’s pursuit of justice, reflecting a commitment to addressing past atrocities and reinforcing the role of international legal mechanisms in conflict resolution.
https://www.dailysabah.com/world/africa/libya-acknowledges-iccs-authority-to-investigate-war-crimes
Australia: Decorated Soldier Loses War Crimes Appeal against Nine Newspaper
On 16 May 2025, Ben Roberts-Smith, Australia’s most decorated living soldier, lost his appeal against a 2023 defamation ruling that found, on the balance of probabilities, he committed war crimes during his service in Afghanistan. The Federal Court upheld the earlier decision, affirming that reports by Nine newspapers and journalists Nick McKenzie and Chris Masters were substantially true in alleging Roberts-Smith was responsible for the murder of four unarmed Afghan civilians. The unanimous judgment by Justices Anna Katzmann, Geoffrey Kennett, and Nye Perram concludes a seven-year legal battle, with Roberts-Smith now ordered to pay the respondents’ legal costs, estimated to exceed AUS$25 million. The court’s findings may pave the way for a criminal investigation by the Australian Federal Police and the Office of the Special Investigator. Roberts-Smith has consistently denied the allegations and plans to challenge the ruling in the High Court. The full reasons for the court’s decision will be disclosed later, pending a national security review.
Russia: Amnesty Urges Release of Detained Publishers Amidst LGBTQ+ Crackdown
On 16 May 2025, Amnesty International demanded the release of book publishing workers recently detained in Russia as part of the country’s escalating crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights. Several employees of Popcorn Books were arrested for distributing titles featuring queer narratives, with Russian authorities accusing them of spreading “extremist materials.” Amnesty’s Russia Director Natalia Zviagina condemned the arrests, calling them a dangerous misuse of state power and an attack on freedom of expression. The detentions follow the Russian Supreme Court’s classification of the LGBTQ+ movement as extremist in December 2023, and other sweeping anti-LGBTQ+ measures passed in recent months. Human rights groups warn that these actions not only endanger LGBTQ+ individuals but also threaten cultural and literary freedoms across Russia.
France: Sues Iran at ICJ Over Detention of Two Nationals, Alleges Hostage-Taking and Rights Violations
On 16 May 2025, France filed a lawsuit against Iran at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over the detention of two French nationals, Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris, arrested in May 2022 while visiting Iran. France accuses Iran of hostage-taking, alleging the detentions are used to pressure France into extraditing terrorists to Iran. The lawsuit cites Iran’s violation of the International Convention Against the Taking of Hostages (1979) and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (1963), arguing that Iran failed to promptly notify France, denied proper consular access, and obstructed legal representation for the detainees. France also highlights the detainees’ prolonged detention—over 1,100 days—with only four brief consular visits, despite repeated diplomatic efforts. The legal action follows concerns raised by UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, who warned of rising state-led hostage-taking, which can cause severe psychological trauma.
Myanmar: At Least 17 Children Killed After Airstrike on School
On 12 May 2025, it was reported an airstrike on a school by the ruling military junta had killed at least 17 children and injured a further 20 in an opposition-controlled area of Myanmar. The strike occurred despite a ceasefire being in place after an earthquake. The school is operated by the opposition’s National Unity Government (NUG) and is located in the town of Depavin in the Sagaing region. It is about 160 km north of Mandalay near where the earthquake struck on 28 March. NUG spokesperson Nay Phone Latt said the death toll from the strike could be higher as people are still missing. Myanmar has been embroiled in conflict since 2021 after a military coup led to civil war. The military junta has struggled to govern the country and has faced setbacks in its efforts to curb an uprising by ethnic minority armies and a resistance movement linked with the NUG. Last week, the junta announced it was extending a ceasefire to 31 May 2025 to allow for earthquake relief efforts. However, military airstrikes and attacks have continued in some parts of Myanmar.
Türkiye: PKK Announces Plan to Disband and End Insurgency Against Türkiye
On 12 May 2025, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) announced that it plans to disband and disarm, potentially ending 40 years of conflict with Türkiye. Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed the decision as an important move for “peace and fraternity” in the country. The announcement follows a call in February by jailed PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan for the group to dissolve. In a statement, the PKK said that its armed struggle had successfully opposed policies that aimed to suppress Kurdish rights, and added the PKK had “completed its historical mission.” The PKK has fought an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984, and is classified as a terrorist organisation by Türkiye, the EU and the US.
https://www.politico.eu/article/kurdish-militant-group-pkk-to-disband-and-disarm/
Saudi Arabia: Amnesty Renews Urgent Call for Release of Detained Saudi Scholar
On 12 May 2025, Amnesty International renewed its demand for the immediate and unconditional release of Saudi cleric and reformist scholar Salman al-Ouda, who has been held in solitary confinement since 2017. The organisation condemned his continued detention as “unjust” and “politically motivated,” asserting that al-Ouda is being punished solely for peacefully expressing his views. Arrested after tweeting a prayer for reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Qatar, al-Ouda has faced severe prison conditions, including prolonged solitary confinement and lack of access to legal counsel. Amnesty warns that he could face the death penalty and calls his trial a violation of his rights to free expression and a fair trial. Despite international concern, including from the UN and Human Rights Watch, al-Ouda remains imprisoned. His case, critics say, reflects a broader crackdown on dissent under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, casting doubt on Saudi Arabia’s claims of reform through its Vision 2030 agenda. Amnesty and other rights groups continue to view his detention as a key test of the kingdom’s human rights commitments.
Haiti: Kenya and the Dominican Republic Sign Agreement to Boost Support for Security Mission in Haiti
On 13 May 2025, Kenya and the Dominican Republic signed an agreement that will increase support for the Kenyan police deployed in Haiti as part of an UN-backed multinational security mission. Dominican Foreign Minister Roberto Alvarez and Kenya’s First Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Secretary Musalia Mudavadi signed the agreement which establishes a Memorandum of Understanding covering medical evacuation and repatriation for injured or deceased personnel. The UN-backed mission led by Kenyan police is supporting Haiti’s national police in fighting violent gangs who have gained control of parts of the country, including the capital, Port-au-Prince. It is estimated the gangs control at least 85% of Port-au-Prince. The mission has struggled to make progress as it remains underfunded and understaffed, with only 1,000 security personnel of the 2,500 originally planned. Last year, over 5,600 people were killed as a result of the violence in Haiti, while more than one million people were displaced.
Germany-Philippines: Sign Defence Cooperation Agreement
On 15 May 2025, it was reported Germany and the Philippines had agreed to strengthen defence ties as the Philippines looks to build alliances and bolster its security position amid its ongoing dispute with China in the South China Sea. Philippine Defence Minister, Gilberto Teodoro and German Defence Minister, Boris Pistorius signed the agreement in Berlin on Wednesday. The agreement enhances cooperation in areas such as cyber security, defence armament, logistics, and United Nations peacekeeping. This recent agreement with Germany is the latest in a growing list of defence deals the Philippines has signed with other nations beyond its traditional ally the US. Last month, the Philippines agreed a defence deal for expanded military cooperation with New Zealand, and a similar agreement is anticipated to be agreed with Canada in the near future. In December, the Philippines approved a reciprocal access agreement with Japan. While President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has also agreed to begin negotiations with France regarding a visiting forces agreement. The South China Sea is a vital maritime route for trade, and for many years countries have clashed over ownership of the disputed waterway. China claims ownership of almost the entire South China Sea, including waters within the exclusive economic zones of Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague found that China’s claim to the South China Sea had no legal basis. However, China does not accept this decision.
https://www.reuters.com/world/germany-philippines-sign-defence-agreement-2025-05-15/
Sudan: RSF Drone Attack Causes Power Outage in Khartoum
On 15 May 2025, Sudan’s national electricity company reported that a drone attack by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) targeted two power stations in Omdurman, western Khartoum, which sparked fires and a power outage across Sudan’s capital, Khartoum. In a statement, the electrical company said civil defence teams were trying to put out the fires and assess the damage to determine the repairs needed. The RSF have been accused of multiple drone attacks on civilian infrastructure, including power stations in Merowe, Dongola, Al-Dabbah and Atbara in northern Sudan, as well as in the eastern states of Port Sudan and Kassala. The war in Sudan began in April 2023, when fighting broke out between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) who were both vying for control of the country. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and a humanitarian crisis. In recent weeks, the RSF have lost ground in several states as the Sudanese army has regained some territory, particularly in Khartoum.
Indonesia: Clashes Kill 18 Rebels and Two Police Officers in Indonesia’s Papua Region
On 16 May 2025, it was reported Indonesia’s security forces had clashed with rebels in the Papua region, which resulted in the deaths of 18 rebels and two police officers. On Wednesday, clashes occurred in villages in Intan Jaya, a known breeding ground for insurgency, when government soldiers offering health and education assistance were ambushed by rebels armed with weapons. In response, the security forces carried out an operation to counter the attacks. Since the 1960’s, rebels in Papua have been fighting an insurgency which followed Indonesia’s annexation of the region, a former Dutch colony. Papua became part of Indonesia in 1969, after a UN sponsored referendum, which has been widely regarded as a sham. Sebby Sambom, a spokesperson for the rebel West Papua Liberation Army, the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement, outlined that only three rebel fighters were killed, and claimed that innocent civilians made up the rest of those killed. Sambom stated Bumiwalo Enumbi had been killed in the operation, a key member of the group, and in retaliation, the rebels killed two police officers in the nearby regency of Puncak Jaya on Friday. In recent years, there has been a spike in rebel attacks, resulting in an increase in the number of recorded deaths among rebels, security forces, and civilians.
https://apnews.com/article/indonesia-papua-army-rebels-clash-835bf27025e0d58a0084c1a14715154f
US: Mexican Navy Ship Crashes into Brooklyn Bridge, Killing Two and Injuring 19
On 17 May 2025, a Mexican Navy training ship, the Cuauhtémoc, collided with New York City’s Brooklyn Bridge after losing power, resulting in two deaths and 19 injuries, including two in critical condition. The vessel, carrying 277 people, struck the bridge’s abutment on the Brooklyn side after a mechanical failure during navigation. The ship’s masts hit the bridge, causing them to snap and injure crew members, some of whom were on the masts at the time. Witnesses described scenes of panic and chaos, with emergency responders struggling to access the scene due to traffic. The Brooklyn Bridge sustained no major damage and was reopened after inspection. The Cuauhtémoc, a 297-foot-long sailing vessel used for naval cadet training since 1982, had departed from Acapulco, Mexico, in April and was headed to Iceland. Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed sorrow over the crew members’ deaths. The ship was later towed from the scene.
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