Stop Arming Conflict and Start Funding Peace: A Call to Action by Wilson Babangida Agboti, Community Impact Affinity (CIA) Chief Operating Officer

 


Stop Arming Conflict and Start Funding Peace: A Call to Action

 

In a world fraught with escalating conflicts, it is imperative to question why the global arms trade continues to thrive while efforts to fund peace initiatives lag behind. The irony is stark: nations allocate trillions of dollars annually to weaponry, perpetuating violence and instability, yet the financial and political support for peacebuilding efforts remains woefully insufficient. 

The Cost of Arming Conflict 

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), global military expenditure reached $2.24 trillion in 2023, marking an alarming trend of increased militarization. This surge fuels ongoing conflicts, undermines development, and exacerbates humanitarian crises. Countries in conflict zones bear the brunt of these expenditures, where funds that could have been directed toward education, healthcare, and infrastructure are diverted to sustain warfare. 

This arms race creates a vicious cycle. The proliferation of weapons fuels conflict, which in turn creates demand for more arms. Communities are torn apart, economies are devastated, and generations are scarred by violence. 

The Power of Peace Funding 

In contrast, funding peace offers a sustainable solution. Investing in conflict prevention, mediation, and post-conflict recovery not only saves lives but also yields significant economic benefits. A 2017 study by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) revealed that the global economic impact of violence is over $14 trillion annually—equivalent to 12.4% of global GDP. Redirecting even a fraction of military budgets toward peacebuilding initiatives could dramatically reduce this cost and create more stable, prosperous societies. 

Success Stories: Peacebuilding in Action 

Examples from Rwanda, Colombia, and Northern Ireland demonstrate that peace is achievable when investments are made in reconciliation, education, and economic development. Rwanda’s recovery from the 1994 genocide is a testament to the power of dialogue and community rebuilding. Colombia’s peace agreement with the FARC rebel group in 2016, though imperfect, underscores the potential of sustained negotiation and reintegration efforts. 

These successes remind us that peace is not just an ideal—it is a practical, achievable goal that requires commitment and resources. 

A Call to Action 

Stopping the arms trade and funding peace requires a collective global effort. Governments, international organizations, and civil society must collaborate to: 

1. Strengthen Arms Control Measures: Implement and enforce international treaties like the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) to regulate the flow of weapons. 

2. Increase Peacebuilding Budgets: Allocate more funding to mediation, conflict resolution, and community resilience programs. 

3. Promote Education and Advocacy: Raise awareness about the economic and social benefits of peace to shift public and political priorities. 

4. Support Grassroots Initiatives: Empower local communities to lead peacebuilding efforts, as they are best placed to understand and address the root causes of conflict. 

The Campaign!

The path to global peace begins with a shift in priorities. Instead of financing destruction, let us fund construction—of bridges, schools, and futures free from violence. The resources exist; what is needed is the will to redirect them toward the greater good. 

Let us champion the cause of peace by demanding accountability from leaders and supporting initiatives that foster understanding and unity. Together, we can stop arming conflict and start funding peace—for a better, more secure world. Be part of this voice for a transformative agenda by joining te campaign on social media with the hashtag #fund4peace. Post your video, call or advocacy with the hashtag #fund4peace and tag @wilsonbabangida and @cimahub_org on Instagram. @cimahub24 on facebook and X.

 

 Wilson Babangida Agboti. 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The utilization of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) with Regards to Gender Perspective in the Planning and Conduct of Military Operations

Image
  The utilization of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) with Regards to Gender Perspective in the Planning and Conduct of Military Operations  By Wilson Babangida Agboti, Defence/Development Consultant Publication Date: 18 th Nov, 2024   Introduction International Humanitarian Law (IHL), which governs the conduct of armed conflict, seeks to protect those who do not or no longer participate in hostilities. Its core principles—distinction, proportionality, and precaution—aim to minimize harm to civilians and civilian objects. However, in the context of modern conflicts, gendered risks require specific attention. Incorporating a gender perspective in the planning and conduct of military operations is essential to better protect women, men, boys, and girls from the unique vulnerabilities they face during conflicts.     Understanding Gender in IHL IHL provides special protections for women, recognizing their distinct vulnerabilities, including t...
Read more

EMPOWERING AFRICA'S YOUTH IN SECURITY CONSULTANCY – A CALL TO ACTION BY WILSON BABANGIDA AGBOTI

Image
  EMPOWERING AFRICA'S YOUTH IN SECURITY CONSULTANCY – A CALL TO ACTION In today's rapidly evolving world, security is no longer just a governmental responsibility—it’s everyone’s business. As a seasoned professional in Security and Protocol Management, I have seen firsthand the critical role security plays in shaping the safety and prosperity of societies. My consultancy offers top-tier services ranging from outsourcing of professional private guards and bouncers to armed and unarmed personnel, as well as VIP protection and escort services as well as private investigative services. But while we provide these solutions, we cannot overlook a fundamental truth: the future of security lies in the hands of our youth. It is high time African youths, especially in Nigeria, recognized the vast opportunities within the security sector and took an active role in securing our future. The government alone cannot tackle the vast scope of insecurity without significant citizen participat...
Read more