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On 3 January 2026, the United States launched strikes in Venezuela and seized President Nicolás Maduro. Whatever you think of his government, bombing and abduction are not a route to democracy. Conscience opposes military intervention and imposed regime change and calls for the UK to uphold international law. This is also a public finance question: our taxes should build peace, not bankroll violence.

As we send seasonal greetings, the NHS is facing acute winter pressure — with resident doctors in England set to strike 17–22 December. This moment underlines why Conscience is needed more than ever: public money should protect life and build peace, not be diverted towards war and preparation for war.

At this year’s National Alternative Remembrance Ceremony, Academy Award–winning actor and long-standing Conscience supporter Sir Mark Rylance delivered a powerful public letter calling for the UK to uphold the right of conscientious objection in the face of escalating global conflict. Reflecting on the rising toll of civilian casualties — especially children — he questions why taxpayers are compelled to fund war through the military portion of their taxes

At events like the Alternative Remembrance Ceremony, we are reminded that we are part of a broad, principled, and compassionate community committed to challenging militarism and building a more peaceful future.

Two decades after 7/7, Gill Hicks’ message still resonates: we can’t use military force against an ideology. In this personal reflection, our Education Officer shares how one woman’s courage and compassion continue to inspire peacebuilding today.

The UK likes to see itself as a force for peace and stability. Yet when we look at where our money goes, a very different picture emerges. Each year, Britain spends over £50 billion on defence, while just a tiny fraction of that is directed towards peacebuilding.