Fourteen NGO and faith organizations urge Defense Secretary Mattis to keep the Peacekeeping and Stability Operations Institute (PKSOI), which develops doctrine, training, and research on the protection of civilians, foreign humanitarian assistance, and stability operations.
Dear Secretary Mattis,
As NGOs and faith communities committed to building a peaceful, stable and just world, we are concerned about the Army’s proposal to eliminate the Peacekeeping and Stability Operations Institute (PKSOI), which is funded by the Department of Defense and operates out of the Army War College in Carlisle, PA.
The United States invests hundreds of billions of dollars into the military each year. This money funds research and activities related to the use of violent force around the world, and contributes to our ability and propensity to use coercive power.
We strongly believe that an intentional investment should also be made in peacebuilding, enabling our country and military to more effectively build peace as they conduct complex operations. The PKSOI is a good first step in this direction. PKSOI develops doctrine, training, and research that addresses important concerns like protection of civilians, foreign humanitarian assistance, peacekeeping training, and stability operations.
The institute facilitates important training, discussion and research between institutions and agencies like the Department of Defense, the Department of State, USAID, and NATO. As these institutions respond to and engage in conflict, it is of utmost importance that they have a common understanding of the best practices and current research in peacekeeping and stability operations.
We urge you to save the Peacekeeping and Stability Operations Institute, and the important function it serves in the United States’ work towards a more stable and just world.
Sincerely,
Alliance for Peacebuilding
Alliance of Baptists
Center on Conscience and War
Church of the Brethren Office of Peacebuilding and Policy
Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, US Provinces
Friends Committee on National Legislation
Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect
Karuna Center for Peacebuilding
Leadership Conference of Women Religious
Marie Dennis, Co-President, Pax Christi International
Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns
National Advocacy Center of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd
National Religious Campaign Against Torture
United Church of Christ, Justice and Witness Ministries
CC:
Hon. Owen West
Senator James Inhofe
Senator Jack Reed
Representative Mac Thornberry
Representative Adam Smith
Click here to download the letter.