Brussels, 12 October 2012: The International Crisis Group congratulates the European Union as this year’s recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.
At a time when the EU is under tremendous day-to-day strain, it is essential we never forget the historical perspective: the EU has been above all else one of the greatest conflict resolution mechanisms ever devised.
We hope that the EU will continue to expand that zone of stability to its neighbours and also bring the message everywhere that deep regional integration and the strengthening of societies built upon the rule of law can be a tremendous force for peace and stability.
Child walks in parade in Colombia ahead of release of 70 soldiers held by FARC. Photo: AFP
8 October 2012: Ten years after the end of the last serious attempt to reach a political settlement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), fresh peace negotiations between the government and the guerrillas will begin in Oslo later this month. The talks have better chances to prosper than past peace attempts, but there are some daunting obstacles, including political resistance or possible violence from spoilers (as analysed in our recent report Colombia: Peace at Last?).
Candidates who ran for posts of Governor and Deputy Governor of West Kalimantan. Source: KPU Kalimantan Barat
4 October 2012: Identity politics is still important in Indonesian elections even though poll organisers have discouraged it and candidates have vowed to stay away from it. Without enforcement, sanction or more self-discipline, it will continue to flourish – until it backfires. On 20 September, voters cast their ballots in three high-profile local elections – the Jakarta gubernatorial race and two polls in West Kalimantan province. They pierced their ballots after candidates canvassed their votes by putting on display their ethnic, racial and religious colours.