My sincerest apologies for being unable to attend today’s AGM.
The role of the Stop The War coalition has never been as important as it is now. With wars raging around here in Europe, in Africa and the Middle East, we must show leadership and unity in our demand for a world of peace, free from nuclear weapons and the influence and interference of weapons manufacturers in our democracy.
As conflicts rage around the world, the global arms trade profits from death, displacement and misery. Last year alone, so-called defence companies amassed sales of $592 billion, its seventh year on the rise and a startling figure that will only continue to grow without significant steps to de-escalate the world’s conflicts and growing tensions.
It seems that peace is simply not profitable and those who call for an end to the bloodshed through diplomacy are relentlessly attacked.
But through these attacks, we must continue with our mission of building the confidence of people and movements to grow their power and shut down the war machine.
We cannot rest until the world of peace promised to future generations is a reality.
My best wishes and solidarity for a successful AGM.
