Policy Update
Lakshita Singh
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace. In that declaration, the UN’s most inclusive body emphasized that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but requires a proactive and participatory process where dialogue is fostered, and conflicts are resolved with mutual understanding and cooperation. Amid growing geopolitical tensions and prolonged conflicts, such as the Israel-Hamas war and the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, it is more crucial than ever to reflect on how the General Assembly, in 1999, outlined the core values essential for fostering a culture of peace.
Keeping these in mind, The theme for the 2024 International Day of Peace is “Cultivating a Culture of Peace.” These values include respect for life, human rights, and fundamental freedoms; promoting non-violence through education, dialogue, and cooperation; a commitment to peacefully resolving conflicts; and upholding principles like freedom, justice, democracy, tolerance, solidarity, cooperation, pluralism, cultural diversity, and understanding at every level of society and between nations.
The violent escalation in Israel and Gaza, as well as the continued devastation in Ukraine, underscore the urgent need for such values. The rising death tolls and destruction in these regions are a reminder of the critical importance of choosing negotiation over confrontation and working together to resolve disputes instead of resorting to violence.
In follow-up resolutions, the General Assembly has emphasized this necessity of cooperation for peace. UNESCO’s Constitution begins with the idea that “since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed.” This notion is especially relevant as conflicts in Israel, Gaza, and Ukraine persist, underscoring the need to cultivate peace through education and dialogue across generations and borders.
The International Day of Peace has traditionally been a time to lay down arms and observe ceasefires. In the context of these ongoing conflicts, it must also serve as a call for recognizing each other’s humanity and finding paths to peace. The survival of our global community depends on fostering such a culture of peace, particularly in regions ravaged by war and division.
History
In 1981, the United Nations General Assembly, with the support of the United Kingdom and Costa Rica, passed a resolution establishing the International Day of Peace. This day was dedicated to promoting and reinforcing the ideals of peace. Initially, the date was set for the third Tuesday of September, which coincided with the annual opening session of the General Assembly.
However, in 2001, the opening session was scheduled for September 11. On that same day, the tragic 9/11 terrorist attacks occurred, when al-Qaeda carried out four coordinated assaults on the United States, just blocks away from the UN headquarters. Following these events, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan acknowledged the significance of observing the International Day of Peace on September 21, marking a shift in its date.
A new resolution was passed later that year, again sponsored by the UK and Costa Rica. This resolution established September 21 as the fixed date for the International Day of Peace, starting in 2002, and also declared it as a day of global ceasefire and non-violence. Since that day, September 21st is celebrated as an international day for peace every year.
Significance of this day in Geopolitics
This day holds immense significance, especially in light of the current global scenario, where escalating conflicts are on the rise. It is crucial for every nation and its people to revive and strengthen the forgotten values of peace. Now more than ever, we must reflect on how peace is not only a moral imperative but a necessity for the growth and development of all. Peace paves the way for stability, prosperity, and progress, making it essential to refocus our collective efforts on fostering it in a divided world.
The International Day of Peace holds deep significance, especially amid the rise in global conflicts like the Israel-Hamas and Ukraine-Russia crisis. By calling for a global ceasefire and non-violence, this day provides a critical opportunity for conflicting parties to pause hostilities and open channels for dialogue. It raises awareness about ongoing wars and fosters mutual understanding, uniting people across political, religious, and national divides. Peace education, emphasized on this day, becomes crucial in shaping future generations who prioritize dialogue over conflict.
For nations, embracing peace promotes stability, which is key for economic growth; studies show that countries at peace can experience up to three times higher economic growth rates than those in conflict. Additionally, war-torn countries face severe development challenges, with an estimated 2.1 billion people currently living in conflict-affected areas. Conflicts also cause devastating losses in human capital, with over 70 million people displaced globally.
If nations act otherwise and fail to embrace these values, the consequences could be catastrophic. Continued violence will deepen divisions, drive humanitarian crises, and severely hinder development. War-ravaged economies lose up to 15% of GDP annually due to conflict, with billions diverted from health, education, and infrastructure toward military spending. For instance, Syria has lost more than $226 billion in economic output due to conflict. This will further exacerbate poverty,inequality, and instability, pushing nations further from peace, growth, and long-term prosperity.
In November, the Bank of Israel estimated the war’s “gross effects” at 198 billion shekels ($53 billion), significantly impacting the nation’s economy. Consequently, the Bank revised its economic growth projections to 2 percent for both 2023 and 2024, down from earlier estimates of 2.3 percent and 2.8 percent. By December, Israel’s Finance Ministry indicated that if the high-intensity phase of the war concluded during the first quarter of 2024, the total cost to Israel could reach approximately $13.8 billion this year. These funds, which could have been allocated to developmental activities or used to support vulnerable communities, are now diverted toward military expenditures, highlighting the urgent need for peace talks as the International Day of Peace approaches.
The war has similarly devastated the economies of both Ukraine and Russia. Ukraine’s economy contracted by about 30% in 2022 due to the conflict, with infrastructure damage alone estimated at over $100 billion. The ongoing war has hindered foreign investment and disrupted essential services, leading to a sharp increase in poverty rates, which could affect up to 60% of the population. Meanwhile, Russia’s economy has faced its challenges, with GDP shrinking by approximately 2.1% in 2022 due to international sanctions and a decline in oil revenues. While Russia has made efforts to adapt, its growth rate for 2023 has been projected at just 0.5%, as the conflict continues to strain resources and limit economic opportunities.
In both cases, the diversion of funds from essential services and development initiatives to military efforts has resulted in significant negative impacts on societal well-being and economic stability. As these nations grapple with the fallout of war, the need for dialogue and a commitment to peace has never been more pressing. The International Day of Peace serves as a timely reminder of the potential benefits of investing in peace rather than conflict, urging leaders and communities to work toward a more stable and prosperous future.
Emerging issues
The ongoing global conflicts, particularly the Ukraine-Russia war and the Israel-Hamas conflict, have significantly shaped the geopolitical landscape and impacted the world on multiple fronts. The annexation of Crimea in 2014 set a precedent for increased military confrontations and territorial disputes, leading to heightened tensions not only in Eastern Europe but also affecting global security dynamics. Similarly, the Israel-Hamas conflict has contributed to instability in the Middle East, influencing international relations and regional alliances. These conflicts have led to an uptick in military expenditures, shifting national priorities from social and economic development to defense and security, which has reverberated across global political frameworks and public sentiment.
Economically, these conflicts have had profound effects on international trade, disrupting established supply chains and altering import-export dynamics. For instance, the Ukraine-Russia war has resulted in a significant decline in agricultural exports from Ukraine, a major global grain supplier.
In 2022, Ukraine’s wheat exports plummeted by nearly 40%, contributing to a 30% increase in global food prices and exacerbating food insecurity in regions heavily reliant on these imports, particularly in Africa and the Middle East. Conversely, Russia’s trade has been impacted by sanctions, leading to a decline in oil exports, which fell by approximately 25% in 2022. These shifts in trade patterns illustrate how conflicts can disrupt not only the economies of the nations involved but also have cascading effects on global markets and food security, ultimately impacting millions of people worldwide.
Concurrently, the Black Sea grain initiative, designed to stabilize global food prices and facilitate grain exports from Ukraine, has faced challenges due to ongoing hostilities. This has resulted in increased global food prices, significantly impacting food security in vulnerable regions, particularly in Africa and the Middle East. In response to these multifaceted crises, India has maintained a neutral stance, advocating for peace and diplomatic engagement.
India’s Significance
India’s recent diplomatic visits to both Ukraine and Russia highlight its commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding amidst geopolitical tensions. The Indian government has emphasized the principle of “Atma Nirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India), promoting local production to mitigate reliance on disrupted global supply chains.
India’s approach serves as a valuable case study for other nations, illustrating the importance of prioritizing humanitarian values and diplomatic engagement over conflict. By advocating for peaceful resolutions and emphasizing cooperation, India exemplifies how countries can navigate complex geopolitical landscapes while addressing pressing humanitarian concerns. As the global community grapples with the consequences of these conflicts, the imperative for dialogue and peaceful resolutions becomes increasingly critical to ensure stability and resilience in an interconnected world.
Are Human Rights Still Relevant in the Face of Modern Conflicts?
Recent global conflicts have profoundly threatened “human security,” encompassing not only physical safety but also socio-economic stability and the protection of human rights. The concept of human security emphasizes safeguarding individuals and communities from pervasive threats, including violence, poverty, and discrimination. In this context, ongoing conflicts have exacerbated vulnerabilities, particularly in developing countries, where limited resources hinder effective responses to emerging crises.
- Physical and Socio-economic Threats: Conflicts such as the Ukraine-Russia war and the Israel-Palestine conflict have precipitated widespread displacement, loss of life, and the destruction of critical infrastructure. According to a report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), there were over 100 million forcibly displaced individuals worldwide in 2023, with a significant proportion arising from conflict-related violence. In addition to these physical threats, these conflicts have engendered severe economic disruptions, including soaring food prices, inflation, and diminished access to essential services, thereby further compromising human security. The World Bank estimates that the Ukraine conflict alone contributed to a staggering 30% increase in global food prices in 2022, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations in developing nations.
- Threats to Human Rights: Conflicts have also catalyzed egregious violations of human rights, including forced disappearances, torture, and arbitrary detention. In many instances, state and non-state actors exploit chaotic environments to perpetrate abuses with impunity. Research by Human Rights Watch highlights the extensive atrocities committed during armed conflicts in regions such as Syria and Yemen, which have undermined the fundamental rights of individuals and communities. These violations are particularly pronounced in developing countries, where legal and institutional frameworks to protect human rights may be weak or non-existent.
- Impact on Developing Countries: Developing nations often lack the financial and institutional capacity to effectively respond to the multifaceted challenges posed by conflicts. Consequently, they face compounded difficulties in addressing humanitarian needs, rebuilding infrastructure, and promoting economic recovery. For instance, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reported that conflicts in countries like Afghanistan and South Sudan have resulted in significant setbacks in human development, with millions of individuals regressing into poverty and food insecurity. The scarcity of resources further restricts these countries’ abilities to safeguard the rights and well-being of their populations.
- Individualistic Notions of Human Rights: The prevailing individualistic notions of human rights, primarily articulated through Western frameworks, often resonate poorly within developing contexts. In many cases, these frameworks emphasize civil and political rights while overlooking the socio-economic rights that are critical for ensuring human security. Scholars such as Amartya Sen have underscored the necessity of integrating economic and social dimensions into the discourse on human rights, arguing that without addressing issues like poverty and inequality, the realization of human rights remains unattainable for many. This disconnect can engender a sense of alienation and disillusionment among populations in developing countries, as they struggle to reconcile their immediate needs with the abstract principles espoused by international human rights instruments.
- Possible Impacts: The confluence of these factors can have far-reaching consequences for global stability and development. As developing countries grapple with the aftermath of conflicts and the erosion of human security, the risk of political instability, social unrest, and further conflict escalates. Moreover, the marginalization of human rights discussions in these contexts may impede progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ultimately perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality
The challenges of addressing these threats are compounded by limited resources and the disconnect between Western notions of human rights and the realities faced by these nations. Understanding and addressing the socio-economic dimensions of human security is paramount for fostering a more equitable and stable global environment. This comprehensive approach is essential not only for the protection of individual rights but also for the long-term stability and development of societies affected by conflict.
Way forward
In conclusion, the ongoing global conflicts highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to peace and diplomacy. The International Day of Peace serves as a critical reminder of the importance of fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and non-violence in resolving disputes. As the world grapples with the ramifications of these conflicts, prioritizing peace negotiations and humanitarian efforts becomes essential for sustainable resolutions.
India, with its rich history of non-violence and diplomacy, stands poised to play a pivotal role in promoting world peace. By positioning itself as “Vishwa Guru” (world teacher, embodying the principles of peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.) and advocating for “Atma Nirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India), India can leverage its cultural heritage to foster collaborative approaches to conflict resolution. Through active diplomatic engagement and multilateral partnerships, India can champion the cause of peace and resilience, addressing the underlying issues that fuel global tensions.
As we commemorate the International Day of Peace, the call for collective efforts to promote stability and harmony has never been more critical. By embodying the values of dialogue and cooperation, India can inspire other nations to prioritize peace, ultimately contributing to a more secure and prosperous global community. The significance of this day is underscored by the pressing need for a united response to the challenges we face, reaffirming that the path to lasting peace lies in our shared commitment to understanding, collaboration, and mutual respect.
References
- UNHCR – The UN Refugee Agency. (n.d.). Global Trends | UNHCR. UNHCR. https://www.unhcr.org/global-trends
- United Nations. (n.d.). International Day of Peace | United Nations. https://www.un.org/en/observances/international-day-peace
- Sagarika Ghose, & Sagarika Ghose. (2023, November 3). ‘Vishwaguru’, take a moral position. Deccan Herald. https://www.deccanherald.com/opinion/vishwaguru-take-a-moral-position-2-2756344
- How War in Ukraine Is Reverberating Across World’s Regions. (2022, March 15). IMF. https://www.imf.org/en/Blogs/Articles/2022/03/15/blog-how-war-in-ukraine-is-reverberating-across-worlds-regions-031522
- Hassan, T. (2024, January 10). World Report 2023. Human Rights Watch. https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2023
- Sen, A. (1999). Development as freedom. Oxford University Press. http://www.c3l.uni-oldenburg.de/cde/OMDE625/Sen/Sen-intro.pdf
About the contributor– Lakshita Singh is a research intern at IMPRI, currently pursuing her graduation in BA Hons History from Delhi University.
Acknowledgment– The author would like to thank Dr. Arjun Kumar and Ms Aasthaba Jadeja for helping review the article.
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