Dear colleagues,

In its resolution CERN/3626 dated 8 March 2022, the Council recalled: ‘… That the fundamental values of the Organisation have always been based on scientific collaboration across borders as an instrument of peace …’.

For too many months now, we have been witnessing a humanitarian catastrophe in the Middle East. The Staff Association can no longer remain silent. We have therefore decided to send the letter below to the President of the Council and our Director-General, reflecting the reactions of many members of the CERN community.

Date : 8 septembre 2025

Subject: Conflict and humanitarian situation in the Middle East

Mr. President of Council, Madam Director-General,

This conflict brings suffering to all.

While fully recognising the restraint and impartiality required of us as international civil servants, the Staff Association wishes to reaffirm its unwavering commitment to CERN's primary objective, Science in the service of peace and humanity, as well as to the fundamental principles of human rights as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.

In doing so, the Staff Association emphasises that the sanctity of human life must be protected, that violence and terror cannot build the future of humanity, and that it is the duty of each one of us – as individuals, nations and international organisations – to avoid hate speech but promote non-violence, peace, dialogue, compassion and understanding in order to defend the human rights of all.

In support of these convictions, the Staff Association wishes to express its thoughts and deepest sympathy to all members of personnel whose lives, families and loved ones have been or are currently affected by this conflict.

As part of its mandate, the Staff Association offers advice and support and invites these colleagues to come forward if they need help. The Staff Association is confident that the Organisation will do the same, as it has done in the past.

CERN must continue to be a voice for a peaceful scientific cooperation, giving support to its community.

Yours sincerely,

Isabelle Mardirossian

Staff Association President