As the world today celebrates the 2024 International Day Of Peace, the need for peace in the society has again come to the fore.
As defined by the United Nations, “Culture of Peace” is a set of values, attitudes, modes of behavior and ways of life that reject violence and prevent conflicts by tackling their root causes to solve problems through dialogue and negotiation among individuals, groups and nations.
Building a Culture of Peace rests on the belief that individuals must treat others as they wish to be treated. This ethical principle applies at all levels of human endeavor including personal, family, community, and national because when individuals are honored, dignity and stability follow but when their fundamental rights are violated, it results to instability. It offers mutual security for humankind in all its diversity through a profound sense of species identity as well as kinship with the living earth. There is no need for violence.
Ultimately, cultivating peace embodies love and compassion, while utilising wisdom not to do harm. A Culture of Peace will be achieved when citizens of the world understand global problems, have the skills to resolve conflicts and struggle for justice. The eight key Pillars, that comprise Positive Peace include Well-functioning Government, Sound Business Environment. Equitable Distribution of Resources. Acceptance of the Rights of Others. Good Relations with Neighbours. Free Flow of Information. High Levels of Human Capital and Low Levels of Corruption.
It is important to teach children and all society about the value of peace, non-violence, human rights, democracy, non-discrimination, social justice, cultural diversity and inter-cultural understanding. It is equally imperative to teach children and students to practice conflict-resolution and peace-building in practical situations as well as encourage peace advocacy and education at all levels of human existence.
Overall, a culture of peace enhances social interactions, reduces violence, and promotes a sense of well-being, harmony in various aspects of life and ultimately a conducive environment for sustainable development and prosperity for all.
As Ndi- Anambra join the rest of the world today to celebrate 2024 World Peace Day, the eighth Assembly of Anambra State House of Assembly should be commended for passing the bill on Anambra State Peace Building and Conflicts Management Agency and Governor Chukwuma Soludo should be extolled for assenting to the bill. It’s now very imperative for the State Government to give life to the said Bill by establishing the Agency to serve its purpose towards achieving a peaceful, livable and prosperous home land, in line with this year’s International theme, “Cultivating a Culture of Peace”, for Anambra people.
BISHOP OZIOMA OZOEMENA
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