We recognise the right of every country to defend itself against attack, but we must never ignore, or allow ourselves to become complicit in, the destruction of human life and violations of human dignity made possible by the sale of weaponry. The conflicts fueled by this trade harm the poorest communities, force people to flee their homes as refugees, and have devastating consequences for our environment.

We stand alongside all those people of goodwill who are peacefully campaigning against the arms trade and join in prayer with the Holy Father that our leaders may commit themselves to ending it, in pursuit of peace and care for our whole human family.

Bishop William Nolan, President – Justice and Peace Scotland

Bishop Declan Lang, Chair – Department of International Affairs, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales

Bishop William Kenney, lead bishop for peace and disarmament issues, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales

Bishop Paul McAleenan, lead bishop for migrants and refugees, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales

Ann Farr, Chair, Pax Christi England and Wales

Marian Pallister, Chair, Pax Christi Scotland

Christine Allen, Director, CAFOD

Alistair Dutton, Director, SCIAF

Paul Southgate, Chair, National Justice and Peace Network