Dated: 31/03/2022
Dear Editor
Dhaka Opinion Magazine
Dhaka
Wars, both civil wars and inter-country wars, are often seen in different countries in the world. But it is well-known that wars not only kill hundreds of thousands of people — along with soldiers — but also bring many other negative impacts including the destruction of buildings, the forced displacement of millions of people and disastrous economic consequences to the world. Indeed, millions of people are displaced in many areas of the world at present because of wars. But it is regretful that lessons from the disastrous consequences of wars are not taken at all, even though these can help prevent many wars in the world before their occurrence and escalation or at least reduce the chance of wars.
Of course, it is difficult to prevent wars in the world all in all, though the chance of it can be reduced with effective steps. It is notable that the world saw many wars including World War I and World War II in the last century alone. There are many justified and unjustified geo-economic, geopolitical and other reasons for the war. Different countries have different geo-economic and geopolitical reasons including territorial disputes, ideological differences, competition for resources, or power struggles between nations that are often conflicting, leading to wars. Among others, historical grievances, ethnic tensions and the desire for self-determination also contribute to the outbreak of armed conflicts within and among nations in different regions of the world.
But there are no effective global institutions to prevent wars. Even if there are international laws and treaties including the United Nations Charter, which prohibits the use of force except in self-defense or with authorization from the UN Security Council, it becomes difficult to prevent wars due to a lack of effective mechanisms. This is the case especially when any superpower engages in any civil war or transboundary war — either directly or indirectly. Even if wars between or among less powerful countries can be prevented on many occasions, all wars in less powerful countries are not easier to be prevented. Thus, it is likely that wars will happen in the future too.
Since the possibility of the occurrences of wars cannot be disregarded at all in the world, even if their chance can be reduced, more effective diplomatic efforts are very important for addressing the direct and underlying causes of civil wars and international wars, mitigating conflicts and resolving wars. But more attention is definitely needed from the international organization especially the United Nations and powerful countries in reducing the occurrences of wars.
Sincerely yours,
Mr. X
City D
Country Y
Email: c@x.com
DISCLAIMER: The views/opinions expressed are those of the LTE authors and do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of the Magazine or its editorial team.
