Understanding 'True' Peace

Peace Day urges nations to adopt a philosophy of tolerance and engage in nonviolence.

Shabbir Hussain Imam

In a world increasingly shaped by geopolitical upheaval, Pakistan has passionately reaffirmed his commitment to peace. President Zardari and Prime Minister Sharif sharply noted the current international scene, riddled with conflicts. Each conflict threatens the fragile fabric of global unity. They declared that the people and government of Pakistan stand firmly with the international community in seeking a war-free world.

On this international peace day, the world faces stark reminders of conflict’s aftermath: destruction, poverty, and hunger. The toll of the 20th century is staggering—108 million lives lost. This chilling statistic serves as a haunting backdrop. Each September 21 compels us to reflect. It is a clarion call, urging us to engage in peacebuilding efforts at every level.

Yet, in the face of this urgent call for peace, many disputes linger, stubbornly entrenched as they were a century ago. Political aspirations and personal ambitions continue to stoke the fires of conflict, hindering global progress and resulting in tragic losses of life and property. Even in this 21st century, the shadow of war looms ominously over numerous regions, stifling the potential for brighter tomorrows.

Jammu and Kashmir is a long-standing conflict that is closely connected to the need for a fair referendum and following the UN Security Council resolutions.

The Jammu and Kashmir issue—a protracted dilemma deeply rooted in the necessity for a fair plebiscite and adherence to UN Security Council resolutions. Similarly, the plight of the Palestinian people cannot be overlooked; they courageously confront state aggression in their quest for dignity. A peaceful resolution to the Middle Eastern crisis is not just desirable but essential, aligned with both UN directives and Palestinian aspirations. While Pakistan extends an olive branch, India’s rigid posture complicates the journey toward peace.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine rages on. Its impacts are felt worldwide, driving up fuel and food prices. The UN Trade Organization has identified this war as a key factor in global economic chaos. Meanwhile, the specter of Chernobyl looms again. Russian forces have taken control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, reviving chilling memories of past disasters.

In Africa, we long for peace in Sudan and Ethiopia. Yet conflicts persist in Congo and Mali. The quest for resolution in the Middle East remains elusive. Syria’s civil war drags on, a decade of suffering unrelenting.

In Yemen, the devastating war brings immense suffering. This highlights an urgent need for a global ethos of acceptance. We must commit to peace steadfastly. This day calls us to embrace non-violence. It urges us to foster an environment rich in mutual respect, love, and solidarity. Pakistan’s substantial contributions to global peace efforts, especially through its dedicated peacekeepers, are well-documented and commendable.

From the heart of Congo to the distant shores of New Guinea, and from Cambodia to Sierra Leone, Pakistan’s peacekeepers have braved perilous terrains, embodying hope and security. Their courageous missions have often steered nations back toward stability, with their sacrifices acknowledged by the United Nations and other global institutions—this recognition is a source of immense pride for Pakistan.

But what, indeed, is the essence of peace? Is it simply the absence of war? The term Pax, derived from Latin, hints at a deeper significance—an agreement to avert conflict. Military historians may define peace as merely a pause in hostilities. Yet, for luminaries like Albert Einstein and Martin Luther King Jr., true peace transcends such simplistic notions, encompassing justice, human rights, and personal freedoms.

Johan Galtung, a noted scholar in peace studies, aptly describes peace as a coin—two sides entwined with violence and chaos. Historical precedents, from ancient Greece to the Roman Empire, illustrate relentless efforts toward peace. The Pax Romana exemplifies how a vast empire maintained harmony through diplomacy. However, resolving disputes influenced by third-party interests remains a daunting challenge, often complicated by capitalism’s relentless pursuit of profit, which can overshadow the quest for peace.

Why, one might ask, do conflicts persist? Often, high stakes keep the wheels of discord turning, with third parties profiting from turmoil. This paradox presents a grim reality: a resolution might hinder ongoing profits, perpetuating a cycle of contention. In international relations, the specter of conflict looms omnipresent, consuming invaluable resources. How much of humanity’s hard-earned wealth is squandered on armaments instead of fostering education and civilization?

To grasp the profound value of peace, one need only look upon the ravaged landscapes of conflict, such as those in Gaza. Following World War II, a structured approach to peace emerged, exemplified by the formation of the United Nations and UNESCO, which championed peace education. This initiative is crucial; it cultivates resilience and empowers societies to address conflicts constructively, guiding them toward stability and progress.

In conclusion, as we honor this day of peace, let us reignite our collective commitment. May our efforts resonate across borders and ideologies, weaving a tapestry of hope. Together, we can forge a future where peace transcends the mere absence of war, becoming a vibrant embodiment of justice, freedom, and mutual respect.

Ends.