The BIC welcomes the ceasefire signed between the Ethiopian government and the regional Tigrayan forces in Pretoria. The African-Union led peace talks have resulted in a surprisingly quick agreement between the parties which, if respected and implemented, will be a critical step in a comprehensive peace process. However, challenges still remain and require vigilance by the international community to ensure that the transition to peace proceeds smoothly.

“Today - courage has a name, and that name is Ukraine.” 

The BIC notes the one-year anniversary of the return of Taliban rule in Afghanistan, and continues to be concerned  at the continued repression of citizens, particularly women and girls whose freedoms to be educated and work have become severely restricted, as well as the escalating poverty crisis causing millions to go without food. 

The BIC's Political Analyst, Ben Lowings, said: