Overview
The Philippines faces significant challenges with internal conflicts, as indicated by the ‘High Severity’ rating on ACLED’s 2023 Conflict Severity Index. The prevalence of conflict is marked by high fatality rates, civilian-targeted violence, widespread subnational conflicts, and the presence of multiple violent non-state groups.
Internal policies and regional insurgencies contribute to the complexity of the situation, necessitating focused peacebuilding efforts, particularly in the Mindanao region.
Efforts to establish peace in the Mindanao region have been a priority, culminating in a peace agreement with autonomy-seeking groups like the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The agreement's political track resulted in the Bangsamoro Transition Authority, while the normalization track focuses on security, socio-economic development, transitional justice, and confidence-building measures.
The Philippines is grappling with internal conflicts that have led to a 'High Severity' rating on the 2023 Conflict Severity Index. The 'War on Drugs' and sub-national conflicts, especially in Mindanao, have escalated violence, with significant implications for civilian safety and human rights.
The Communist insurgency, led by the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People's Army, continues to pose a security challenge. The government's zero-tolerance stance and the cessation of peace talks in 2022 highlight the ongoing struggle to resolve this long-standing conflict.
The Philippine National Action Plan on Youth, Peace, and Security underscores the government's strategy to involve youth in peace and security initiatives. The plan's pillars of participation, protection, prevention, and partnership aim to empower young people and integrate them into the peacebuilding process.