fbpx
Every dollar matched up to $50,000 until December 31! Give today.
Our SpeakUp® Mechanism
Nonviolent Peaceforce logo with blue dotDonate

Minister Noel M. Novicio Advocates for UCP Inclusion in Peacekeeping Operations

Date: May 16, 2023

During the 2023 inaugural meeting of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations, representatives from around the world spoke on the importance of peacekeeping as a powerful way to foster international unity. Speakers also noted the areas in which the peacekeeping industry can improve— including better communication strategies, the promotion of gender equality, and stronger protection for Programme staff on the ground.

Among the participants, Minister Noel M. Novicio, representative of the Philippines, underscored within his statement the need for the "recognition of the contributions of unarmed civilian protection (UCP) in peacekeeping operations." The Minister's statement further validates the crucial role Unarmed Civilian Protection (UCP) plays in peace processes.

The Minister is familiar with UCP, as there are numerous examples of civilians applying UCP principles daily in the Philippines:

Empowering and Connecting Youth with Opportunities for Change

8 youth members standing shoulder to shoulder looking directly at the camera.

A young leader, named Ridya, formed a community that brings together youth and fosters their engagement in creating positive changes.

Two youth members stand back to back smiling at the camera. one man wearing a pink shirt and one woman wearing a pink shirt and black hijab. they are standing in front of a green screen.

Across Mindanao, NP has supported communities with multimedia trainings. The youth use broadcasting to promote nonviolence, digital literacy, and COVID-19 health education, all of which are helping to counter radicalization.

Woman in mask speaking to group of people

Richelle continues to actively increase youth engagement in local peace and security initiatives.

"As a peacebuilder, I believe that my voice can be a tool in helping my co-youth and community towards peace and development, especially if the local government units."

-Richelle, STREAM Project Participant

Creating Entry Points for Women to be Included in the Peace Process

Women farmers kneeling (Philippines)

Ex-combatants have taken it upon themselves to address food insecurity in Lanao Del Norte.

A group of 8 female peace facilitators smile for a photo while wearing Nonviolent Peaceforce vest and badges. They are outdoors in a field, clouds in sky, grassy field.

Former BIWAB members become Women Peace Facilitators, using the principles of UCP to spread throughout their community.

Upskilling Community Leaders

Man in wood building (Philippines)

Abe shares a moving story about using UCP principles to protect his neighbors caught in a crossfire.

A woman stands in front of a table of women.

Annielyn provides psychosocial first aid for young women.

an outdoor dining area with a thatched roof, people seated at the table, and a counter in front of them.

Hadji re-echos NP's teachings throughout his community.

"...If they know about their rights, they can uphold them. They can’t defend themselves because they think they have no rights.”

-Hadji
one person standing in a building with a high ceiling and concrete beams, facing the camera He wears a prosthetic arm.

Butch helps resolve disputes peacefully and practices de-escalation techniques with community members.

group photo of the 8 gender peace champions. they are standing upon rocks in front of trees.

Gender Peace Champions are hosting conflict prevention trainings and advocating for the protection of women’s rights.

You can protect civilians who are living in or fleeing violent conflict. Your contribution will transform the world's response to conflict.
arrow-right