Ukraine Peace Talks Must Prioritize Human Rights, Coalition Urges World Leaders
Berlin, November 27, 2025 - As international discussions surrounding a potential peace plan for the Russia-ukraine war gain momentum, a broad coalition of human rights organizations is demanding that the human impact of the conflict be central to any agreement. The People First Campaign, comprised of 73 Ukrainian, Russian, and international groups - including Human Rights Watch – issued a direct appeal to key global leaders yesterday, November 26, 2025.
The campaign delivered an open letter to figures including U.S. President Donald Trump, heads of state within the European Union, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Turkish President recep Tayyip Erdoğan, emphasizing the urgent need to address the plight of those directly affected by the war.
“People need to come first,” stated Benjamin Ward, Acting Europe and Central Asia Director at Human Rights Watch. “The release of conflict-related detainees should be at the heart of any peace effort.”
The People First Campaign, launched in January, is specifically focused on securing the release of all those detained consequently of the conflict. Their letter calls for the freedom of several key groups: Ukrainian civilians currently held by Russian forces, prisoners of war on both sides of the conflict, Russian citizens imprisoned for expressing opposition to the war, and Ukrainian children who have been deported or forcibly transferred by Russian authorities.
The coalition highlighted the grave dangers faced by Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war currently in Russian custody, citing credible reports of widespread and systematic torture and other forms of ill-treatment. They argue that prioritizing the release and well-being of these individuals is not merely a humanitarian concern, but a fundamental requirement for any lasting and just peace.
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