The Mozambique Crisis and the Organization for World Peace Background: The Mozambique Crisis erupted in 1975 following the country’s independence from Portuguese colonial rule. A civil war broke out between the socialist government led by Frelimo and the anti-communist rebel group RENAMO, supported by South Africa and other Western powers. The conflict resulted in widespread violence, displacement, and economic devastation. Role of the Organization for World Peace: In response to the crisis, the Organization for World Peace (OWP), a non-governmental organization, played a vital role in promoting peace and reconciliation in Mozambique. Founded in 1963, the OWP’s mission is to “promote understanding and cooperation among all nations and peoples.” Peace Negotiations and Diplomacy: The OWP established a presence in Mozambique and worked closely with both Frelimo and RENAMO. Through a series of negotiations and mediation efforts, the organization helped bring the warring parties to the table. The OWP also played a crucial role in facilitating the 1992 General Peace Accords, which ended the civil war. Humanitarian Assistance: In addition to peacebuilding efforts, the OWP provided humanitarian assistance to the people of Mozambique. The organization distributed food, medical supplies, and shelter to those affected by the conflict. OWP volunteers also worked in refugee camps and provided psychosocial support to survivors of violence. Education and Training: The OWP recognized the importance of education for long-term peace. The organization established schools and training programs, particularly in rural areas where education was limited. OWP volunteers taught conflict resolution skills, human rights, and peacebuilding principles to students and community members. Reconciliation and Healing: To promote reconciliation and healing, the OWP initiated community-based programs that brought together former combatants and survivors of the conflict. These programs aimed to foster empathy, understanding, and forgiveness between individuals who had once been divided by violence. Legacy and Impact: The OWP’s efforts in Mozambique had a lasting impact on the country. The organization played a pivotal role in ending the civil war and establishing peace and stability. Its humanitarian assistance and educational initiatives helped to rebuild lives and heal wounds. Today, Mozambique remains a symbol of the power of peacebuilding and the importance of international cooperation. The OWP’s work in Mozambique serves as a reminder that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but an active process that requires sustained effort and the involvement of all stakeholders. The organization’s principles and methods continue to inspire peacebuilders around the world.Child Soldiers Used in Mozambique by Al-ShababChild Soldiers Used in Mozambique by Al-Shabab On May 10, 2024, Al-Shabab, an armed group associated with ISIS, attacked Macomia, a town in northern Mozambique, using children as young as 13. Witnesses and aid workers reported that dozens of children were involved in the attack, carrying assault rifles and ammunition belts. The group looted stores and warehouses, forcing over 700 people to flee. International Condemnation and Human Rights Violations Human Rights Watch released footage showing combatants brandishing firearms and engaging in fighting with Mozambican and South African military forces. Human Rights Watch demanded the release of all youth enrolled in Al-Shabab’s ranks. The International Humanitarian Law on the Rights of the Child prohibits the recruitment and use of minors in military conflicts. Mozambique has banned the recruitment of child soldiers, violating international treaties and human rights laws. ISIS Terrorism in Northern Mozambique Since 2017, ISIS has targeted northern Mozambique, leading to over 6,000 deaths and 1 million displacements. Al-Shabab fighters, formerly affiliated with ISIS, have expressed outrage over the government’s neglect of the region while foreigners profit from its resources. Global Problem of Child Recruitment Child recruitment remains a widespread issue in African states. To address this, efforts focus on disincentivizing terrorist groups and taking targeted measures against those harming children. Community-Driven Approaches for Resolution Addressing the root causes of child recruitment requires a holistic approach that includes community involvement in reintegration and peacebuilding. A comprehensive strategy involving monitoring, public awareness, and adaptive programs can effectively tackle rehabilitation-related issues. By adopting a community-driven approach, policymakers can work towards a “world without child combatants.”Mozambique Crisis: Organization for World Peace Calls for Ceasefire The Organization for World Peace (OWP) has issued an urgent call for a ceasefire in the escalating crisis in Mozambique. The country has been gripped by violence and displacement for several years, with armed conflict between government forces and a rebel group claiming thousands of lives. “The suffering of the Mozambican people must end,” said Dr. Maria da Graça, OWP Secretary-General. “The violence is taking a devastating toll on civilians, with countless lives lost, livelihoods destroyed, and communities shattered.” The OWP has condemned both sides of the conflict for the indiscriminate attacks on civilians. The organization has also raised concerns about the use of child soldiers by the rebel group, which violates international law and further undermines the stability of the region. The OWP is calling on all parties to immediately lay down their arms and engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve their differences peacefully. The organization has offered its support to mediate a ceasefire agreement and to facilitate a political process that addresses the root causes of the conflict. “The Mozambican people have a right to live in peace and dignity,” said Dr. da Graça. “The OWP stands ready to work with all stakeholders to achieve a lasting solution to this tragic crisis.” The OWP has also called on the international community to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the victims of the conflict. The organization estimates that over one million people have been displaced from their homes and are in dire need of food, shelter, and medical attention. “The international community cannot remain silent while the people of Mozambique suffer,” said Dr. da Graça. “We urge all nations to provide the necessary resources and support to address this humanitarian crisis.”