Newsletter June 2025
[Invitation] Shadow Special Session on Disarmament (SSOD) at SOAS University
We are delighted to invite you to participate in the Shadow Special Session on Disarmament (Shadow SSOD) – a unique and inclusive conference taking place on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (BST) at the SOAS Brunei Gallery, London.
What is the Shadow SSOD?
The Shadow SSOD is a dynamic forum where youth, civil society actors, diplomats, think tanks, and other relevant stakeholders will come discuss the agenda and discuss the possibility of establishing a fourth special session of the General Assembly devoted to disarmament (SSOD-IV). The event will provide a platform for participants to present their visions for sustainable security and engage in dialogue.
Conference Format:
The conference will enable interest groups and organizations to engage with a wide range of stakeholders. To ensure a diversity of perspectives, university and high school students will take on the roles of organizations and nations that may not otherwise be represented, enriching the debate and expanding the range of views.
Smaller breakout rooms will host focused discussions, with insights and ideas then brought back to the larger group to encourage cross-group dialogue and shape collective outcomes.
Following the event, SCRAP Weapons will compile a conference report summarizing key recommendations and best practices — a living document that will help guide future initiatives. The day will also serve as a valuable networking opportunity for students and practitioners committed to sustainable disarmament and peacebuilding.
Learn more about SCRAP Weapons here:
https://scrapweapons.com/
If you would like to attend, please complete the form below to express your interest in attending as soon as possible, as spots are limited. We look forward to your involvement in this important initiative.
Warm regards,
The Shadow SSOD Organising Team
Date: 13 September, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM BST
Location: SOAS Brunei Gallery, London
For inquiries, contact: Ashoka Bandi Phillips
07990 155066 | ab194@soas.ac.uk
Call for Peace
In his first appearance as the Successor of Peter from the Central Loggia of St Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV greeted the city of Rome and the world, calling for love and brotherhood for the sake of all humanity. The Pontiff expressed a desire for peace to resonate in all hearts and among all people, urging the building of bridges through dialogue and encounter to unite as one.
“…A peace that is unarmed and disarming, humble and persevering. A peace that comes from God, the God who loves us all, unconditionally.
…Help us, one and all, to build bridges through dialogue and encounter, joining together as one people, always at peace.”
Full statement here: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-05/pope-leo-xvi-peace-be-with-you-first-words.html

