URGENT CALL FOR GLOBAL PEACE BY WILSON BABANGIDA AGBOTI, DEFENCE AND DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT. ABUJA, NIGERIA


 "The World at War: An Urgent Call for Global Peace" 

by

 Amb. Wilson Babangida Agboti, Member World Citizen Peace. 


Background

The world today finds itself engulfed in numerous conflicts, from regional wars and political crises to economic battles and the ominous threat of nuclear warfare. Nations form alliances, often driven by underlying interests and motives, creating a complex web of relationships that further escalate tensions. As humanity faces these prevailing threats, the time to advocate for global peace has never been more pressing.

Picture Source: study.com

Across various continents, regional conflicts continue to devastate lives and destabilize societies. In the Middle East, ongoing tensions in countries like Syria and Yemen have led to humanitarian crises. In Africa, nations like Sudan and Ethiopia are embroiled in internal strife, displacing millions and causing widespread suffering. Political crises in countries such as Venezuela and Myanmar further illustrate the fragility of peace and the destructive potential of unresolved disputes. In the Carribean, the political instability, lack of peace, hardship and gang violence in Haiti are equally heartbreaking. 

Economic Wars and Global Competition

Picture Source: study.com

Economic competition has morphed into a form of warfare, where sanctions and trade wars serve as weapons. The ongoing tensions between the United States and China highlight the dangers of such economic conflicts, affecting not only the involved nations but also global markets and economies. The repercussions of these economic wars are felt worldwide, contributing to economic instability and poverty in already vulnerable regions.

The Threat of Nuclear Warfare

Source: The Strategy Bridge
The specter of nuclear warfare continues to loom over humanity. With nations like North Korea and Iran advancing their nuclear capabilities, and global powers modernizing their arsenals, the risk of nuclear conflict remains a significant threat. The fragile nature of treaties like the New START between the U.S. and Russia further complicates efforts to curb this existential danger.

Economic Disintegration and Coups in Africa

Picture Source: Channels TV

In Africa, economic disintegration has been compounded by a wave of coups, destabilizing entire regions. Burkina Faso, Mali, and Benin Republic have experienced coups that not only disrupt political stability but also hinder economic progress. These upheavals often result in weakened state institutions, loss of investor confidence, and deteriorating economic conditions, exacerbating poverty and inequality. The repeated cycle of coups and economic instability in these nations underscores the urgent need for sustainable governance and peace-building efforts.

Terrorism and the Fight for Dominance

Terrorism remains a pervasive threat, with groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda continuing to carry out attacks around the globe. The fight for dominance among various ideologies and factions exacerbates global insecurity, making the need for effective counter-terrorism strategies and international cooperation more critical than ever.

Alliance and Treaties

Source: foreignpolicy.com

In an attempt to navigate these turbulent waters, nations have formed alliances and signed treaties, often with underlying motives that serve their own interests. While alliances like NATO aim to maintain security, others, driven by power dynamics and geopolitical strategies, can escalate tensions further.

Advocating for Global Peace

Source: International Peace Bureau 

In the face of these multifaceted conflicts, advocating for global peace requires a multifaceted approach. Diplomacy must be prioritized over militarism, and dialogue over discord. International institutions, such as the United Nations, must be empowered to mediate and resolve conflicts. Nations must commit to disarmament and the reduction of nuclear arsenals. Economic policies should focus on cooperation and mutual benefit rather than competition and sanctions.

In Summary, I wish to say that the world stands at a crossroads. The path we choose will determine the future of humanity. By addressing the root causes of conflict, fostering international cooperation, and promoting peace, we can work towards a safer, more stable world. This call for global peace is not just a moral imperative but a necessity for the survival and prosperity of all.


About the Author

Wilson Babangida Agboti is an experienced ICT, security, and development consultant with over a decade and half of progressive experience in the IT industry and the security sector. His expertise spans across information and communication technology, security, and development, a combination that has reshaped his professional journey and commitment to humanitarian causes.

After completing his MSc in Conflict Security and International Development in 2018, Wilson transitioned into the field of development, driven by a passion for addressing global challenges. He is actively involved in promoting peace, security, and sustainable development, aligning his efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Wilson holds significant roles in various organizations, including his position as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Community Impact Affinity (CIA), where he plays a strategic role in advancing sustainability and community services. He is also an accredited consultant and business facilitator with the International Society of Diplomats (ISD), reflecting his influence and dedication to global diplomacy.

Wilson's contributions include participating in key events like the National Economic Dialogue, where he highlights economic issues and calls for actionable solutions. His advocacy extends to fostering digital literacy and empowerment through initiatives like the CIA Youth Empowerment Initiative Master Plan (CIA-YEIMP), aiming to equip Nigerian youth with essential digital skills.


References:

  • UN reports on the humanitarian crises in Syria and Yemen. https://press.un.org/en/2022/sc14995.doc.htm 
  • Economic analyses of the U.S.-China trade. war. https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/reser_e/ersd202004_e.htm?
  • Articles on nuclear arms developments and treaties. https://disarmament.unoda.org/wmd/nuclear/tpnw/?  https://history.state.gov/milestones/1961-1968/npt?
  • Studies on global terrorism and counter-terrorism efforts. https://www.un.org/counterterrorism/?
  • Reports on coups and economic instability in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Benin Republic. https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/burkinafaso/overview? https://www.usip.org/publications/2024/10/sahel-coup-regimes-split-ecowas-risks-instability-coastal-west-africa?
  • Diplomatic strategies and peace-building initiatives from international organizations. The future of multilateral peacebuilding and conflict prevention - Atlantic Council

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

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

Image
  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.   ...
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