Solidarity Message and Statement of Concern

Solidarity Message and Statement of Concern

Interfaith Cooperation Forum (ICF)

The Interfaith Cooperation Forum (ICF) of the Asia Pacific Alliance of YMCA (APAY) expresses its deep concern and heartfelt solidarity with the peoples of Bangladesh, Indonesia, Nepal, the Philippines, and the wider Asia-Pacific region, who continue to endure heightened political unrest and socio-political challenges that undermine peace, justice, and the dignity of communities.

As an interfaith movement committed to justice, peace, and human rights, we are alarmed by the continuing violence, political instability, systemic corruption, and erosion of democratic processes in the region. In particular, we express grave concern about the persistent corruption among government officials in Bangladesh and the Philippines, which exacerbates inequality, undermines public trust, and diverts resources intended for social services, poverty alleviation, and disaster response.

In Bangladesh, we recognize the courageous role of the youth whose mass protests against corruption, repression, and inequality led to historic political change. Their calls for accountability, good governance, and democratic reforms reflect the deep aspirations of a new generation that refuses to be silenced. Yet, despite the fall of the previous administration and the installation of an interim government, young people activists and ordinary citizens continue to face uncertainty, human rights violations, and economic hardship, raising urgent concerns about the future of democracy and justice in the country.

In the Philippines, systemic corruption, governance failures, and continuing attacks on human rights defenders, indigenous peoples, and marginalized groups weaken democratic institutions and hinder the full realization of just and inclusive development. Similarly, in Indonesia, protests against elite enrichment have been met with excessive force, while in Nepal, a youth-led uprising against the stagnant political class was triggered by the suppression of digital freedoms. Across both nations, long-standing issues of corruption, unemployment, and a lack of opportunities for young people threaten community stability and the rights of citizens. These challenges echo across the region, reminding us of the urgent need for solidarity, accountability, and integrity in leadership.

We affirm that the dignity of every person is sacred, and that justice, peace, and integrity are inseparable foundations for a life of fullness. Guided by our shared faith traditions, we denounce all forms of violence, suppression of freedoms, abuse of power, and corruption that perpetuate fear, division, and poverty.

In this spirit, we:

• Stand in solidarity with faith communities, civil society organizations, youth movements, and peace advocates in Bangladesh, Indonesia, Nepal, the Philippines, and across the Asia-Pacific who continue to defend human rights, good governance, and democratic spaces;
• Call upon governments in the region to uphold justice, eradicate corruption, protect democratic institutions, and prioritize the welfare and participation of their citizens;
• Appeal to the international community to accompany and support the peoples of these nations in their aspirations for peace, integrity, equity, and freedom; and
• Recommit ourselves as ICF–APAY to promote dialogue, interfaith cooperation, and education for peace throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

May our collective prayers, voices, and actions nurture hope and strengthen the movements for peace, justice, integrity, and reconciliation.

In solidarity,

Alumni, Program Committee, and Staff
Interfaith Cooperation Forum (ICF)

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