This month the United Nations Security Council unanimously endorsed Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ call for a global ceasefire. Resolution 2532 recognises that COVID-19 is already exacerbating existing issues in conflict-affected countries, and demanded a cessation of hostilities as the only way to ensure an effective response to the pandemic. However, in many countries, the resolution is yet to have an effect and COVID-19 is continuing to have a negative impact on prospects for peace.

Conciliation Resources is excited to announce that we have signed a recognition agreement with Community Union who will represent a large proportion of our UK employees. This partnership means that Community will negotiate pay, terms and conditions for their members as well as being consulted on working practices.

Reimagining Victory is a digital series, developed by Conciliation Resources in partnership with the IWM Institute. The series sees leading journalists, peacebuilders, artists and academics discuss the concept of victory, and look at some of the most pressing issues surrounding conflict and peacebuilding in today’s world. As we mark 75 years since the end of the second world war, what does it really mean to ‘win’ a war today?

The COVID-19 pandemic has not paused conflict around the world – despite calls for a global ceasefire, researchers have found. The data comes from a new digital tracking tool developed by the University of Edinburgh, with support from Conciliation Resources and our strategic partners mediatEUr.

From North America to South Asia the coronavirus pandemic has exacerbated societal conflicts promoting a rise in militarised responses from governments. But behind the headlines and stark images, community leaders, including women peacebuilders are stepping in to mediate and deescalate tensions.

If we want to see societies win the peace we need a concept of victory that is about justice and reconciliation, inclusion and equality.