Munich, February 8, 2026 – On the eve of the fourth anniversary of the Russian attack on Ukraine, the International Munich Peace Conference is set to provide a platform for civil society representatives from Russia and Ukraine. The conference will specifically highlight conscientious objectors and activists who have resisted the war, enduring repression, imprisonment, or exile as a consequence.
Voices Absent from the Security Debate
“These voices are not coincidentally absent from the Security Conference. They do not fit into a security policy logic that relies on rearmament and deterrence,” stated Maria R. Feckl, project manager for the International Munich Peace Conference. Feckl emphasized that the Peace Conference deliberately positions itself as a civil society counter-proposal to a debate largely dominated by state actors and arms interests.
The event will focus on the experiences and legal status of conscientious objectors in Russia, Ukraine, and Israel. “We will learn about their commitment against the war, human destinies, and the legal consequences for conscientious objectors in Ukraine, Russia, and Israel,” Feckl added.
Parallel Event to the Munich Security Conference
The International Munich Peace Conference will take place from February 13 to 15, 2026, running concurrently with the Munich Security Conference. It will be held at Salesianum, St.-Wolfgangs-Platz 11, in Munich-Haidhausen.
Further information regarding the program, participants, and venue can be found at: https://friedenskonferenz.info/
Key Themes and Participants
The conference aims to shed light on critical issues surrounding peace and disarmament, international affairs, and the human cost of conflict. By bringing together those directly affected by war and repression, the organizers seek to foster a dialogue that transcends traditional security narratives.
The Role of Civil Society
The initiative underscores the vital role of civil society organizations in advocating for peace and human rights, particularly in contexts where official channels may be limited or biased. The conference provides an opportunity for these voices to be heard and for international solidarity to be strengthened.
Focus on Conscientious Objection
Conscientious objection, a fundamental human right, will be a central theme. The conference will explore the legal frameworks, challenges, and personal stories of individuals who refuse to participate in armed conflict due to moral or ethical convictions. This includes examining the varying degrees of protection and persecution faced by conscientious objectors in different countries.
Addressing Militarism and Disarmament
Beyond individual stories, the conference also seeks to address broader issues of militarism and the need for disarmament. By presenting alternative perspectives to the prevailing focus on military solutions, the organizers hope to contribute to a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of peacebuilding.
Expected Impact
The organizers anticipate that the conference will generate increased awareness of the plight of conscientious objectors and activists, stimulate public debate on alternative approaches to conflict resolution, and encourage greater international support for peace initiatives. It is also hoped that the event will foster networking and collaboration among peace activists and organizations globally.
The emphasis on direct testimonies and the legal aspects of conscientious objection is expected to resonate with attendees and provide valuable insights into the complexities of war and peace from a human-centered perspective. The conference’s timing, coinciding with the Munich Security Conference, is a deliberate choice to offer a contrasting narrative and highlight the importance of civil society engagement in peace processes.
Source: Pressenza Munich
