Generating peace in a nation is rarely about a single event; it is about building a "peace infrastructure" that can survive disagreements and stress. Peace isn't just the absence of war; it's the presence of justice and opportunity.
Here is a breakdown of how sustainable peace is generated from the ground up:
1. The "Justice First" Principle
Peace is fragile if people feel the system is rigged. To generate lasting peace, a nation must ensure procedural justice.
Equality Before the Law: When the wealthy or powerful are held to the same standards as the poor, public frustration drops.
Transitional Justice: For nations with a history of conflict, "Truth and Reconciliation" commissions help heal wounds by acknowledging past wrongs without necessarily seeking vengeance.
2. Economic Inclusion (The "Empty Stomach" Theory)
Conflict often thrives where there is high youth unemployment.
Reducing Inequality: When the gap between the "haves" and "have-nots" is too wide, it creates a breeding ground for crime and radicalization.
Fair Resource Distribution: Ensuring that regions where wealth is generated (like oil-rich or mineral-rich areas) see the direct benefits in their schools and hospitals.
Here is a breakdown of how sustainable peace is generated from the ground up:
1. The "Justice First" Principle
Peace is fragile if people feel the system is rigged. To generate lasting peace, a nation must ensure procedural justice.
Equality Before the Law: When the wealthy or powerful are held to the same standards as the poor, public frustration drops.
Transitional Justice: For nations with a history of conflict, "Truth and Reconciliation" commissions help heal wounds by acknowledging past wrongs without necessarily seeking vengeance.
2. Economic Inclusion (The "Empty Stomach" Theory)
Conflict often thrives where there is high youth unemployment.
Reducing Inequality: When the gap between the "haves" and "have-nots" is too wide, it creates a breeding ground for crime and radicalization.
Fair Resource Distribution: Ensuring that regions where wealth is generated (like oil-rich or mineral-rich areas) see the direct benefits in their schools and hospitals.
