Silent Killers

In this episode of Face2Face, we sit down with humanitarian leader Ayman Sorour for a deeply personal and quietly powerful conversation. Ayman reflects on the moments of tragedy he’s witnessed in the field, the losses that stay with you, and the unexpected ways individual acts—small, steady, imperfect—can bend the world toward something better. Together, we explore how impact is built one choice at a time, and why every gesture of care matters more than we think.Ayman Sorour is founding executive director of Protection Against Armaments and Consequences, a NGO that works on humanitarian disarmament in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) including landmines, cluster munitions, human rights, killer robots, the convention on conventional weapons (CCW).He has been conducting research for the Landmine and Cluster Munition Monitor of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines-Cluster Munition Coalition (ICBL-CMC) on the MENA region since 2000. Sorour wrote and contributed to many publications on law, human rights, landmines, and cluster munitions since 1995. He’s a board member of the governing board of the ICBL-CMC and the African Center for Democracy and Human Rights Studies in Banjul, the Gambia. Sorour holds a BA in Law from Cairo University, human rights diploma from the International Institute for Human Rights (Strasbourg, France), senior mine action managers training from James Madison University (USA).He speaks Arabic, English, and French.David Peck is a writer, speaker, and award-winning podcaster who works at the intersection of storytelling, social change, and meaningful dialogue. As the host of Face2Face and former host of Toronto Threads on 640 AM, he has published over 650 in-depth interviews with some of the world’s most compelling thinkers, artists and storytellers, including Viggo Mortensen, Sarah Polley, Raoul Peck, Werner Herzog, Chris Hadfield, David Cronenberg, Gillian Anderson and Wade Davis.With a background in philosophy and international development, David brings a thoughtful, globally aware perspective to every conversation. He’s a published author and experienced keynote speaker, known for creating spaces where complexity is welcomed and ideas come alive. Whether moderating panels, hosting live events, or speaking on issues ranging from ethics to media, David’s work is grounded in a deep curiosity about people and that he simply loves good conversation and believes it’s one of the best ways we grow, connect, heal and make sense of the world.For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck, ICBL and Face2Face. Used with permission.

In this episode of Silent Killers, David Peck engages with Izumi Nakamitsu who discusses the importance of hope and collaboration in addressing global challenges. She emphasizes the need for camaraderie and the belief that collective efforts can lead to meaningful change, even if it is incremental. Her optimism stems from witnessing real progress made by individuals and groups working together.Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu assumed her position as Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs on 1 May 2017.She has many years of experience within and outside the United Nations system, most recently as Special Adviser Ad Interim on Follow-up to the Summit on Addressing Large Movements of Refugees and Migrants between 2016 and 2017. She was previously Director of the Asia and the Middle East Division of the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations between 2012 and 2014, and Director of the Department’s Division of Policy, Evaluation and Training, from 2008 to 2012.Between 2005 and 2008, Ms. Nakamitsu was Professor of International Relations at Hitotsubashi University in Tokyo, where she also served as a member of the Foreign Exchange Council to Japan’s Foreign Minister, and as a visiting senior adviser on peacebuilding at the Japan International Cooperation Agency. Between 1998 and 2004, she was the Chef de Cabinet and Director of Planning and Coordination at the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, based in Stockholm, Sweden.Earlier in her career, Ms. Nakamitsu was a member of the United Nations Reform Team of former Secretary-General Kofi Annan. She also held positions with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), including within the office of Assistant High Commissioner for Policy and Operations Sergio Vieira de Mello, and in UNHCR field operations in the former Yugoslavia, Turkey and northern Iraq. Ms. Nakamitsu holds a Master of Science degree in Foreign Service from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., and a Bachelor of Law degree from Waseda University in Tokyo. She is married and has two daughters.David Peck is a writer, speaker, and award-winning podcaster who works at the intersection of storytelling, social change, and meaningful dialogue. As the host of Face2Face and former host of Toronto Threads on 640 AM, he has published over 650 in-depth interviews with some of the world’s most compelling thinkers, artists and storytellers, including Viggo Mortensen, Sarah Polley, Raoul Peck, Werner Herzog, Chris Hadfield, David Cronenberg, Gillian Anderson and Wade Davis. With a background in philosophy and international development, David brings a thoughtful, globally aware perspective to every conversation. He’s a published author and experienced keynote speaker, known for creating spaces where complexity is welcomed and ideas come alive. Whether moderating panels, hosting live events, or speaking on issues ranging from ethics to media, David’s work is grounded in a deep curiosity about people. At heart, he simply loves good conversation and believes it’s one of the best ways we grow, connect, and make sense of the world.For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck, ICBL and Face2Face. Used with permission.

In this episode of Silent Killers, David Peck engages with Loren Persi from the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL) to discuss the ongoing issues surrounding landmines, disarmament, and the impact on survivors. They explore Loren's journey into activism, the significance of the Landmine Monitor report, and the importance of independent reporting in holding states accountable. The conversation delves into data collection methods, trends in casualties, and the vital role of survivor networks in advocating for change. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes the need for continued awareness and action in addressing the humanitarian crisis caused by landmines.Loren Persi is the Impact Research Team Leader with the ICBL-CMC Landmine Monitor research team. He has been conducting vital research with the Monitor for over 15 years and has worked specifically on victim assistance issues since 2004.David Peck is a writer, speaker, and award-winning podcaster who works at the intersection of storytelling, social change, and meaningful dialogue. As the host of Face2Face and former host of Toronto Threads on 640 AM, he has published over 650 in-depth interviews with some of the world’s most compelling thinkers, artists and storytellers, including Viggo Mortensen, Sarah Polley, Raoul Peck, Werner Herzog, Chris Hadfield, David Cronenberg, Gillian Anderson and Wade Davis. With a background in philosophy and international development, David brings a thoughtful, globally aware perspective to every conversation. He’s a published author and experienced keynote speaker, known for creating spaces where complexity is welcomed and ideas come alive. Whether moderating panels, hosting live events, or speaking on issues ranging from ethics to media, David’s work is grounded in a deep curiosity about people. At heart, he simply loves good conversation — and believes it’s one of the best ways we grow, connect, and make sense of the world.For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here. F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck, ICBL and Face2Face. Used with permission.

In this conversation, David Peck interviews Lloyd Axworthy, a prominent Canadian politician and human rights advocate, discussing his political journey, the significance of the Ottawa Treaty, and the ongoing challenges of landmines and human security. Axworthy emphasizes the importance of civic education and the role of civil society in promoting disarmament, while also reflecting on personal motivations and the need for radical hope in today's political climate. Lloyds new book is available here.Lloyd Axworthy is a Canadian politician, elder statesman and academic. He served as Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien. In 2000, he retired from politics, returning to western Canada where he served as President of the University of Winnipeg for ten years. In December 2015 he was promoted to Companion of the Order of Canada. He now chairs the World Refugee and Migration Council and lives with his wife Denise, in Ottawa.David Peck is a writer, speaker, and award-winning podcaster who works at the intersection of storytelling, social change, and meaningful dialogue. As the host of Face2Face and former host of Toronto Threads on 640 AM, he has published over 650 in-depth interviews with some of the world’s most compelling thinkers, artists and storytellers, including Viggo Mortensen, Sarah Polley, Raoul Peck, Werner Herzog, Chris Hadfield, David Cronenberg, Gillian Anderson and Wade Davis. With a background in philosophy and international development, David brings a thoughtful, globally aware perspective to every conversation. He’s a published author and experienced keynote speaker, known for creating spaces where complexity is welcomed and ideas come alive. Whether moderating panels, hosting live events, or speaking on issues ranging from ethics to media, David’s work is grounded in a deep curiosity about people. At heart, he simply loves good conversation — and believes it’s one of the best ways we grow, connect, and make sense of the world.For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck, ICBL and Face2Face. Used with permission.

In this episode of Silent Killers, David Peck interviews Erin Hunt, the Executive Director of Mines Action Canada, discussing her journey into activism, the importance of public engagement, and the role of youth in disarmament efforts. They explore the Mind Action Fellows Program, which empowers young advocates to engage in international diplomacy and share survivor stories. The conversation highlights the challenges faced in the fight against landmines, the importance of celebrating small wins, and the hope for a future free of landmines through collective action and support from decision-makers.Erin Hunt is the Executive Director of Mines Action Canada. She has been doing public education on the Ottawa Treaty banning landmines since 2003 and working in humanitarian disarmament in various capacities since 2006.Erin's areas of expertise include the humanitarian impact of indiscriminate weapons, victim assistance, gender in disarmament and Canadian disarmament policy. She contributes to the work of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines, the Cluster Munition Coalition, the International Campaign to Abolish nuclear weapons and Stop Killer Robots. Erin contributes to the Women, Peace and Security Network - Canada and to national and international working groups on feminist and gender sensitive approaches to foreign policy and mine action. During the 2017 process to negotiate the Treaty on the Prohibition of nuclear weapons, Erin was a member of the International Campaign to Abolish nuclear weapons negotiating team which was awarded the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize.Prior to joining Mines Action Canada, Erin worked on victim assistance programs for landmine survivors in Uganda, implemented sport-based peacebuilding programs for youth in a post-conflict setting and worked in child welfare. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from the University of Victoria and a Masters Degree in Human Security and Peacebuilding from Royal Roads University.www.minesactioncanada.orgDavid Peck is a writer, speaker, and award-winning podcaster who works at the intersection of storytelling, social change, and meaningful dialogue. As the host of Face2Face and former host of Toronto Threads on 640 AM, he has published over 650 in-depth interviews with some of the world’s most compelling thinkers, artists and storytellers, including Viggo Mortensen, Sarah Polley, Raoul Peck, Werner Herzog, Chris Hadfield, David Cronenberg, Gillian Anderson and Wade Davis. With a background in philosophy and international development, David brings a thoughtful, globally aware perspective to every conversation. He’s a published author and experienced keynote speaker, known for creating spaces where complexity is welcomed and ideas come alive. Whether moderating panels, hosting live events, or speaking on issues ranging from ethics to media, David’s work is grounded in a deep curiosity about people. At heart, he simply loves good conversation — and believes it’s one of the best ways we grow, connect, and make sense of the world.For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck, ICBL and Face2Face. Used with permission.

In this episode of Silent Killers, host David Peck engages with photographer and photojournalist Giovanni Diffidente, who shares his profound journey into the world of photography and his commitment to documenting the impact of landmines and advocating for disarmament. Giovanni recounts his early experiences in London, his awakening to the plight of landmine survivors, and the personal stories that drive his work. The conversation explores the role of photography in advocacy, the ongoing challenges in landmine disarmament, and the resilience of survivors. Giovanni emphasizes the importance of storytelling in raising awareness and inspiring change, while also reflecting on the emotional toll of his work and the hope that continues to motivate him.Giovanni Diffidenti is a photographer and visual storyteller based in Italy. Since 2012, their work has illuminated urgent social issues, from mental health and disability to post-conflict recovery and environmental resilience.His humanitarian reportage spans more than twenty countries. Highlights include documenting the first women deminers in Kosovo for GICHD, the Colombian government’s demining efforts with FARC-EP for Norwegian People’s Aid, and post-earthquake recovery in central Italy for WeWorld. They have photographed Syrian refugees with UNICEF in Jordan and Turkey, captured the realities of disability in Afghanistan, and portrayed the lives of the Nuba people in Sudan for Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch. Committed to education and awareness, Giovanni has led photographic workshops for Raffles Milano, Museo della Storia in Bergamo, and CESVI Onlus, and have produced national campaigns on Parkinson’s disease, breast cancer, and COVID-19.His lens continues to reveal human resilience and dignity, transforming complex global stories into compelling visual narratives that inspire empathy and action.www.giovannidiffidenti.comDavid Peck is a writer, speaker, and award-winning podcaster who works at the intersection of storytelling, social change, and meaningful dialogue. As the host of Face2Face and former host of Toronto Threads on 640 AM, he has published over 650 in-depth interviews with some of the world’s most compelling thinkers, artists and storytellers, including Viggo Mortensen, Sarah Polley, Raoul Peck, Werner Herzog, Chris Hadfield, David Cronenberg, Gillian Anderson and Wade Davis. With a background in philosophy and international development, David brings a thoughtful, globally aware perspective to every conversation. He’s a published author and experienced keynote speaker, known for creating spaces where complexity is welcomed and ideas come alive. Whether moderating panels, hosting live events, or speaking on issues ranging from ethics to media, David’s work is grounded in a deep curiosity about people. At heart, he simply loves good conversation — and believes it’s one of the best ways we grow, connect, and make sense of the world.For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck, ICBL and Face2Face. Used with permission.

In this episode of Silent Killers, host David Peck engages in a profound conversation with Alex Mouniam Babazi, a Ugandan doctor and advocate for disability rights. Alex shares his harrowing personal journey from being a soldier who stepped on a landmine to becoming a leader in victim assistance and the founder of the Amputee Self-Help Network. The discussion explores themes of trauma, recovery, and the importance of sharing personal stories as a means of healing. Alex highlights the challenges faced by amputees in Uganda, including the lack of rehabilitation services and access to prosthetics, and emphasizes the need for advocacy and support for individuals living with disabilities. The episode concludes with a reflection on the intersection of disability, poverty, and healthcare, and the ongoing efforts to improve the lives of landmine survivors.Alex Munyambabazi is the founder and driving force behind the organization, bringing visionary leadership shaped by profound personal experience. An amputee who lost his right limb to a landmine blast while serving as an army officer, Alex has turned adversity into advocacy. He is a passionate peer counselor and a tireless campaigner against anti-personnel mines, championing the rights and needs of amputees across Uganda and beyond. A professional medical practitioner, Alex holds a Master’s degree in Immunology and Medical Microbiology, a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science, and a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology. His unique blend of scientific expertise and lived experience fuels his commitment to improving healthcare and support systems for landmine victims. Recognized internationally, Alex has represented Ugandan amputees and landmine survivors at global forums, speaking out for justice, rehabilitation, and the eradication of landmines worldwide. His leadership embodies resilience, service, and an unwavering dedication to humanitarian action.David Peck is a writer, speaker, and award-winning podcaster who works at the intersection of storytelling, social change, and meaningful dialogue. As the host of Face2Face and former host of Toronto Threads on 640 AM, he has published over 650 in-depth interviews with some of the world’s most compelling thinkers, artists and storytellers, including Viggo Mortensen, Sarah Polley, Raoul Peck, Werner Herzog, Chris Hadfield, David Cronenberg, Gillian Anderson and Wade Davis. With a background in philosophy and international development, David brings a thoughtful, globally aware perspective to every conversation. He’s a published author and experienced keynote speaker, known for creating spaces where complexity is welcomed and ideas come alive. Whether moderating panels, hosting live events, or speaking on issues ranging from ethics to media, David’s work is grounded in a deep curiosity about people. At heart, he simply loves good conversation — and believes it’s one of the best ways we grow, connect, and make sense of the world. For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here. F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck, ICBL and Face2Face. Used with permission.

In this episode of Silent Killers, host David Peck engages with advocates Alma Taslidzan and Kasia Derlicka-Rosenbauer to discuss the pressing issues surrounding landmines and disarmament. They share personal stories that led them to become advocates, the significance of the 1997 Treaty banning landmines, and the ongoing challenges faced in the fight against these weapons. The conversation highlights the human cost of landmines, the impact of funding cuts on advocacy efforts, and the importance of mobilizing citizens for change. Despite the challenges, both guests express hope and determination to continue their work in promoting humanitarian disarmament.Kasia Derlicka-Rosenbauer is The ICBL's Policy and Government Liaison Manager. She has been involved in the work of the campaigns since 2002, first as a national campaigner and Landmine Monitor researcher, and since 2007 as staff. Previously Kasia worked for the Polish Red Cross and briefly for the EU/Red Cross Office in Brussels. Her first exposure to the issue of landmines was in 1997 when she volunteered at a German NGO Friedensdorf International taking care of children from war-torn countries many of whom were landmine survivors. Kasia holds a Master’s degree in International Relations from the University of Warsaw and her thesis was devoted to the role of civil society in bringing about the Mine Ban Treaty.Alma Taslidžan has devoted her career to disarmament and protection of civilians, from 2007 working for Handicap International for South East Europe, on projects related to mine action and disability. Since 2014 she leads Disarmament and Protection of Civilians advocacy for Humanity & Inclusion. She contributed to the development of the political declaration to address the humanitarian consequences from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas and establishing the Explosive Weapons Monitor. She is in touch with survivors and conflict affected population through research projects and makes sure that assistance to victims is always on the agenda of disarmament discussions. She also monitors the implementation of the Mine Ban Treaty and the Convention on Cluster Munitions. She sits in the Boards of INEW, ICBL and CMC, and she is a member of the Monitoring and Research Committee of the Landmine and Cluster Munition Monitor and Board member of the Explosive Weapons Monitor.Taslidžan holds a university degree in Journalism and Public relations, from the Faculty of Political Science, University of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.David Peck is a writer, speaker, and award-winning podcaster who works at the intersection of storytelling, social change, and meaningful dialogue. As the host of Face2Face and former host of Toronto Threads on 640 AM, he has published over 650 in-depth interviews with some of the world’s most compelling thinkers, artists and storytellers, including Viggo Mortensen, Sarah Polley, Raoul Peck, Werner Herzog, Chris Hadfield, David Cronenberg, Gillian Anderson and Wade Davis. With a background in philosophy and international development, David brings a thoughtful, globally aware perspective to every conversation. He’s a published author and experienced keynote speaker, known for creating spaces where complexity is welcomed and ideas come alive. Whether moderating panels, hosting live events, or speaking on issues ranging from ethics to media, David’s work is grounded in a deep curiosity about people. At heart, he simply loves good conversation — and believes it’s one of the best ways we grow, connect, and make sense of the world.For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck, ICBL and Face2Face used with permission.

In this episode of Silent Killers, host David Peck speaks with Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Jody Williams about her lifelong journey as an activist and her pivotal role in the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL). Williams shares personal stories that shaped her sense of justice, from standing up to bullies in childhood to leading a global coalition that secured the landmark Ottawa Treaty in 1997. The conversation explores how activism begins in small, personal acts of courage and grows into movements that change the world. Jody reflects on the persistent humanitarian threat of landmines, the challenges of global disarmament, and why collective action and community are the keys to building peace.This episode is a powerful reminder that hope lies in collaboration, moral courage, and the determination to confront injustice.Jody Williams is a lifelong activist and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate recognized for her leadership in the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL). In 1997, she and the ICBL received the Nobel Prize for their work in spearheading the Ottawa Treaty, which has since been signed by more than 160 nations.Williams has dedicated her life to issues of peace, human rights, and disarmament, beginning with protests during the Vietnam War and later engaging in humanitarian work across Central America. As the founding coordinator of the ICBL, she grew a small coalition into a powerful global network of 1,300 NGOs across 90 countries.Today, Jody continues to advocate for justice, dignity, and collaboration as guiding principles for change. Her story is one of moral courage, grassroots organizing, and the belief that ordinary people—working together—can transform the world.David Peck is a writer, speaker, and award-winning podcaster who works at the intersection of storytelling, social change, and meaningful dialogue. As the host of Face2Face and former host of Toronto Threads on 640 AM, he has published over 650 in-depth interviews with some of the world’s most compelling thinkers, artists and storytellers, including Viggo Mortensen, Sarah Polley, Raoul Peck, Werner Herzog, Chris Hadfield, David Cronenberg, Gillian Anderson and Wade Davis. With a background in philosophy and international development, David brings a thoughtful, globally aware perspective to every conversation. He’s a published author and experienced keynote speaker, known for creating spaces where complexity is welcomed and ideas come alive. Whether moderating panels, hosting live events, or speaking on issues ranging from ethics to media, David’s work is grounded in a deep curiosity about people. At heart, he simply loves good conversation — and believes it’s one of the best ways we grow, connect, and make sense of the world.For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck, ICBL and Face2Face. Used with permission.