Public statement for peace & resilience ahead of the 2025 NATO Summit

Issued during the Just Peace Festival, The Hague, this statement is an initiative of The Hague Humanity Hub.

As world leaders prepare to gather in The Hague for the 2025 NATO summit, we call for a balanced vision of peace and security that puts people at its heart.

At a time when the focus is increasingly on defence and military preparedness, we urge equal and sustained attention and investment in the long-term work of building resilient, inclusive and just societies. This is not an alternative to security. It is its foundation.

The Hague speaks for peace and rebalancing security

We cannot rely solely on military force to prevent and resolve conflicts. We also need policies that eliminate the social, economic and political roots of conflict. This means investing in resilience, stable institutions, equitable economies, inclusive and just societies, and the rule of law. Today’s complex and compounding global problems – conflicts and geopolitical tensions, the climate crisis, deepening inequalities – all call for a balanced approach. Our collective security and well-being everywhere—including here in the Netherlands—rely on it.

However, while military spending is increasing, investments which prevent the root causes of conflict are decreasing.

We need to act now

Here in The Hague, across the Netherlands and beyond, many individuals and institutions are working tirelessly to prevent conflict, protect human rights, uphold international law, and build the foundations of just and peaceful societies. These efforts are essential to global security and must be valued and resourced alongside defence.

We therefore call on political leaders, civil society, international institutions, and concerned citizens to:

• Champion policies that recognize addressing root causes as a vital part of our approach to security alongside defence;
• Ensure that the pursuit of peace remains a shared and resourced priority in both national and international agendas;
• Increase investments in developing stable institutions, equitable economies, inclusive and just societies, and the rule of law;
• Recognize and support the vital contributions of peacebuilding and humanitarian organizations and professionals in the Netherlands and worldwide;

Peace is not found in the absence of war— it is found in building resilient, inclusive, and just societies as the pathway to sustainable peace. Let us not lose sight of the truth. And let us act on it. We invite all individuals and institutions committed to a more just and peaceful world to endorse this statement and stand together in building a future where peace is protected and cultivated.

If you have any questions or would like to get in touch with us please drop a line to hello@humanityhub.net.