Comment, analysis, news

Stripping the Civilian – how army training isolates, disorientates and dominates recruits

04/07/2017

ForcesWatch comment

New findings highlight need to protect young people from harsh military training environments and inadequate safeguards in cadet forces.

The First Ambush: Effects of army training and employment

04/07/2017

Veterans For Peace UK

A new report out today from Veterans For Peace UK details how the Army's training process has a 'forceful impact' on attitudes, health, and behaviour even before recruits are sent to war.

Hidden in full sight: sex abuse covered up by cadet forces

04/07/2017

BBC News

BBC Panorama has uncovered evidence of repeated cover-ups of historical sex abuse in Britain's cadet forces.

Protesting Armed Forces Day in Liverpool

26/06/2017ForcesWatch comment
A tale of two cities: a personal reflection on the display of the UK's potential for armed violence on the streets of Liverpool alongside its more radical history. This article was originally published by Souciant Magazine.

Militarism the whole family can enjoy

23/06/2017

ForcesWatch comment

Local authorities have become the military’s promotional agents and recruiting sergeants. This article was first published in The Morning Star.

What would Lennon do on Liverpool’s Armed Forces Day?

21/06/2017

ForcesWatch Comment

"Peace is possible, and it isn't just inevitable to have violence... so advertise yourself that you're for peace if you believe in it." Imagine John Lennon alive today, with a ticket to ride back to his hometown, Liverpool, on 24 June 2017, the day that the city hosts Armed Forces Day.

Let’s Give Peace a Chance on Armed Forces Day

12/06/2017
Armed Forces Day is on Saturday 24 June, or 17 June in some places. Over 350 events which package war as entertainment with military vehicles, weapons and recruiting stalls will be taking place across the UK. The national event is taking place in Liverpool. Here we list alternative events that are challenging the militarism of Armed Forces Day with vigils and events promoting peace.  

#GE2017: info & questions for candidates

26/05/2017

ForcesWatch comment

A brief roundup of manifesto pledges on defence and security and some questions for your candidates on their support for a more sustainable and ethical security policy, one that does not result in the promotion of military intervention or military interests within education and civil society.

Do You Know The Agenda Behind Your School’s STEM Provision?

14/03/2017

ForcesWatch and Scientists for Global Responsibility

The military and arms industries are putting large sums of money into our education system and into STEM educational material for schools. Science4Society Week is a chance to focus on learning from less destructive employers.

Armed forces visits to Scottish schools – a ‘big issue’

07/03/2017

ForcesWatch comment

Our petition lodged at Holyrood along with Quakers in Scotland on military visits to schools has taken a significant step forward.