By Im Byoung-min, Columnist (imubiquitius@gmail.com)
Who is war really for, and what purpose does it serve? This is a question worth reflecting on repeatedly. It is crucial to recognize that humans should abstain from waging war. In the event of war, both the perpetrator and the victim suffer equally. Consequently, Japan, a nation that has experienced the devastation of war, has upheld its "Peace Constitution" since its surrender in World War II in 1945. The constitution, enacted in November 1946, embodies a commitment to never employ military force as a means of pursuing peace or resolving international disputes.
Today, conflicts rage in various parts of the world, including Ukraine, Russia, Israel, and Iran. These conflicts often stem from human ambitions such as territorial expansion, religious differences, and the desire of some nations to exert power through nuclear capabilities. Now, more than ever, it is vital for everyone on Earth to contemplate peace and seek ways of coexisting harmoniously.
There are approximately 50 billion galaxies in the vast universe, and within this immense expanse, Earth is but a tiny dot. In this small global village, can we not find a way to live peacefully, respecting and caring for one another without resorting to conflict? "Education for peace" is the most pressing need for humanity. War inflicts pain on everyone, and it is essential to recognize the inherent value of humans as beings who should not suffer or die due to war. This understanding must be cultivated from birth, throughout life, and into old age.
Countries engaged in war suffer extensively, irrespective of their justification or lack thereof. Our focus should be on pursuing peace. The European Union was founded to prevent war among European countries through cooperation and mutual understanding. Building an international political framework that encourages close communication, broad consideration, and sharing can serve as a foundation for lasting peace.
Avoiding war might seem straightforward, but in reality, it is a complex challenge. However, there are methods to avert conflict and sustain peace. This necessitates continuous efforts in diplomacy and dialogue, alongside strategies to resolve disputes via diplomatic negotiation and mediation rather than force. Third-party mediators, such as international organizations or friendly nations, play a vital role, as do cultural exchanges that promote mutual understanding. Ignorance breeds misunderstanding and fear, which can lead to conflict. Therefore, understanding and respecting different cultures, histories, and religions are crucial. The international community must uphold international laws and norms, leveraging instruments like the UN Charter, the Geneva Conventions, and the International Criminal Court. Voluntary compliance with these laws and norms is essential for preventing conflict. Economic interdependence strengthens peace; if nations are economically linked through trade, investment, and tourism, mutual benefits can discourage war. The EU exemplifies how economic communities can deter conflict.
Furthermore, from birth through all stages of life, individuals should be compelled to receive education about the value of peace. They should consciously oppose war and acknowledge the necessity of peace. The media also plays a significant role in consistently educating the public about the importance of peace. In the AI era, even humanoid robots must be programmed with peace as a fundamental tenet. Only individuals who have undergone special peace education should be entrusted with political leadership. They must possess a foundational sense of moderation and responsibility, always choosing and pursuing peace despite any impulse. This framework constitutes a moral and ethical system, serving as a norm for human behavior.
You can find the Korean version of this article here.
