The Philippine government is set to resume peace talks with the country’s communist rebels in an effort to end decades of civil strife. The government will re-engage with the New People’s Army (NPA) for the first time in six years, with facilitation from Norway. Both parties have agreed to work towards a peaceful resolution of the armed conflict, addressing deep-rooted socio-political grievances. If negotiations succeed, the rebels will transition from armed struggle to a political movement, according to Norway.
The Philippine government’s conflict with the NPA has lasted for over 50 years and has resulted in the deaths of more than 40,000 people. Despite a decrease in the number of fighters, the NPA continues to pose a threat in some parts of the country. Peace talks have been ongoing since 1986, with the most recent formal talks held in 2017 and terminated by then-President Rodrigo Duterte. However, renewed peace talks have been announced under the administration of Ferdinand Marcos Jr, who recently issued an order granting amnesty to former members of rebel groups, including the communist movement.