(Left to Right) Gene Alcantara, H.E. Ambassador Antonio Lagdameo, Massimo Trombin, Charles Hardie, Robin Marsh
Massimo Trombin, the International Director of Field Operations of the Global Peace Festival, briefed the local Philippine community on the developments of the Mindanao Peace Initiativeat the UK Philippine Embassy on November 3rd, 2009. The peace initiative is a Track II approach to support the official peace process by grassroots, youth, education and community service projects. Massimo Trombin, who has been active in the area since 2006, used a powerpoint presentation that can be down loaded from this link (Mindanao Peace Initiative – UK Powerpoint.)
There was a broad representation of the Philippine community including representatives of the embassy staff, media, the Mindanao UK group and the Philippine Muslim Association – UK group.
The evening began with Gene Alcantara, whose passion for the issue has been instrumental in developing a local support group, welcoming the audience. He emphasised that Philippinos in the UK were not able to forget the conflict in Mindanao even though the world’s attention was focused elsewhere. He was happy that Muslims from Mindanao were present to participate in this event and to express their views. “The diaspora can contribute to peace and development in Mindanao if only by making people aware of the issues ….. or raising funds for the peace efforts in Mindanao.”
The Ambassador HE Antonio Lagdameo made an excellent speech outlining the official peace process that we will upload shortly. Ambassador Lagdameo emphasised the Philippine Government’s determination to find a peace agreement for Mindanao before the end of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s term of office in May 2010.
Mrs Loline Reed moderated the question and answer session. Dr Raheem Khan, a founding member of the Muslim Council of Britain and a Trustee of the Universal Peace Federation – UK, emphasised that Islam is a religion of peace during his comments.
Dr Raheem Khan shaking hands with Sheikh Abdul Mannan Wahid of the Philippine Muslim Association UK
From this gathering and other meetings during Massimo’s visit it is planned to establish a Working Group in the UK that can support the efforts of the Mindanao Peace Initiative.
We have a wonderful opportunity to celebrate National Interfaith Week and to commemorate the late Dr L.M. Singhvi’s contribution to interfaith work. Dr Singhvi, as a distinguished seven year Indian High Commissioner to the UK, left a deep impression particularly in his encouragement of good interfaith relations. Professor Lord Parekh, who in November 2008 gave a commemorative lecture, will highlight the significance of Dr. L. M. Singhvi’s promotion of interfaith understanding in the cause of peace. Dr Singhvi was the former President of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) in India and in that position held numerous conferences on the possibilities of an Inter-religious Council in the United Nations.
The UPF Interfaith Committee’s series of Joint Celebrations of Holy Days seeksto provide opportunities for people of faith to learn about and celebrate other religious traditions. We are encouraging an inter-generational expression of younger and older representatives of Muslim, Jewish, Dharmic and Christian faiths to explain what Eid, theJewish High Holidays, Diwali and All Saints Day means to them. We want to encourage younger participants from the audience to also offer their comments during the evening. It is appropriate that we can celebrate the holy days of several faiths while commemorating the contribution of Dr Singhvi who contributed greatly to interfaith dialogue.
‘Today religion is often seen as a potent but negative force. As Lord Parekh said, we must not just look for commonalities between religions but for ways in which we can aid the process of co-existing well. In the declaration of UNESCO it states that ‘War begins in the minds of men’ – I say that peace begins in the minds of men, women and children. The Universal Peace Federation’s work is all about this peace and it is my privilege to introduce this work to you. UPF is emphasizing that peace is too important to be left to diplomats and soldiers alone. There are other constituencies of peace which deal with our common future and human equality.
Dr. L. M. Singhvi
Dr. L. M. Singhvi with Robert Kittle
‘The Universal Peace Federation is the forum to address these issues – we are many people, but one world, one cosmos. If we do not hang together, as religions, we will hang separately! The mission of religion is to reach the soul and heart of humanity. UPF promotes the culture of heart in the garden of diversity and is for intervention on a hundred fronts where humanity needs help and succour. Peace will not come unless civil society is at the forefront and pushing interfaith dialogue. It will not come through the establishment. Inter-religious work speaks of love of peace and the peace of shared love. There is so much we can do together and that we destroy in our separateness.’ Interfaith Initiatives
The evening promises to be an exciting occasion and therefore we urge you to reserve your place. Kindly RSVP by email or telephone to any of the numbers below. We look forward to seeing you on November 18th at 5:00 pm, House of Lords, Room 4A. (Please remember to leave 30 minutes to go through security.)
The UPF Bi-annual Peace Council Meeting is a gathering of Ambassadors for Peace and friends to review activities and strategise how to utilise the cooperative influence of UPF’s growing national and international network. The Universal Peace Federation and its slogans of ‘one family under God’ and ‘living for the sake of others’ has incredible significance in this time of unsettling changes. The UPF Peace Council will begin at 10:30a.m. On Saturday 5th of December, with sessions up to lunch of reports and keynote speakers who have been supporting UPF events during the year.
Please feel free to come forward with names of people who have shown such support either in your region or in your UPF committee or group, you are working with. After lunch there will be a break out strategy session based on UPF areas of activities. The late afternoon will hear reports about UPF International activities, keynote speakers from UK public life and Ambassador for Peace awards.
We would like to use this opportunity to present several Ambassadors for Peace awards to those who have been actively making a difference in UPF and public life. You are encouraged to recommend people you feel fall in this category explaining why in a paragraph.
Besides the set programme we will ensure that there is a lot of time for networking time. It will serve also as our Annual General Meeting and include reports from UPF Branches and Committees.
Please bring your ideas and if you feel that you personally or your region or committee or UPF group you work with has something special to report please do let us know, because we would like to showcase best three hopefully time permitting. There will be a £5 charge to cover the cost of the day. There will also be an opportunity to pay an inclusive £20 for both discounted membership fee of £15 for 2010 and entrance fee. The regular UPF annual membership is £20. Kindly RSVP to reserve your place.
Emma Burnell, Vice Chair SERA Labour Environment Campaign
Lawrence Bloom, Chair of UN Environment Programme on Green Economy Initiative and the former chairman,
current Council Member, of the World Economic Forum, Global Agenda Council on Urban Development
London is a microcosm of the world. UPF Environment Chapter is opening the floor for discussion on a ‘London Initiative’ that aims to develop sustainable solutions. We will look at the current state of negotiations for Copenhagen and alternative solutions that will benefit the planet while stimulating healthier, happier and vibrant communities.
Global cooling or warming politics, cap and trade, recession, unemployment, green economy, sustainable growth versus sustainable communities, greed & fear are increasing the challenges for a global approach. Professor and Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen emphasised that there is a third way not in globalisation nor in the national level.
Linear (consume and dump) versus Cyclical economy? From wind to solar energy to algae, how to secure success of renewable and environmental friendly innovative solutions? How to prepare for a future water and food crisis? Who benefits and who loses from it? How to ease regulation policies so that environmental friendly initiatives can be easily implemented on the grass root level and the community?
Should we use reward systems to accelerate CO2 footprint reduction or continue on a punishment tax system? How to move in a ”green economy” and not ”green bubble”?
UPF is organising a series of conferences to answer questions, promote discussion and bring awareness to the grass roots through community and interfaith leaders. UPF wants to mobilize our network of leaders in understanding environmental, renewable issues in view of the upcoming “Copenhagen 2009 Climate Change Conference” in December.
UPF Bristol recently held a showcase event where we could welcome our European sub-regional chair Jack Corley and our UK secretary-general Robin Marsh. We also had presence of David and Patricia Earle from UK Birmingham region supporting us warmly.
Among many guests, five new Ambassadors for Peace were introduced. We had wonderful talks and lectures but also interfaith prayers, songs, African drumming and testimonies from our dear Ambassadors for Peace. Professor Iwugo from Bristol University who is an adviser for Bristol UPF said that ‘the UPF is a very inspiring organization where all the races and all the religions can work together for world peace’.
This showcase made people much more aware and respectful of Father and Mother Moon’s work. After the official meeting finished, people were still talking with much excitement, feeling that they want to do something together with UPF.
The audience enjoyed learning how to play African Drums by Omanye African Drums and Dance UK Performance.
Danielle, 14 years old, sang beautifully during the programme.
Narraser Rochelle Gordon - STOP
There was a very serious talk by Narraser Rochelle Gordon who is involved in STOP – Solve This Ongoing Problem – of gun and knife crime. More can be found about this organisation on Facebook.
Lord Bikhu Parekh, Chair of ‘Future of Multi-Ethnic Britain’ Report in 2000
Ms Yasmin Alibhai- Brown – distinguished Journalist and Commentator
Mr Tom Brake MP – Liberal Democrat Spokesperson on Home Affairs
Mr Keith Best – Chief Executive, Immigration Advisory Service
Committee Room 12, House of Commons
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Wednesday 24th of November, 2009
(Please allow half an hour for security procedure at St Stephen’s Gate)
Immigration policy is a political hot potato in the months before an election. Enforced deportations, loss of control of asylum seekers, loss of benefits for refugees until they are accepted all may change the reputation of the UK in the world. Great Britain is generally well respected for its models of good practice in interfaith relations and its appreciation of other peoples’ cultures. It is also noteworthy that major religions praise the values of hospitality and sanctuary. This permeates our legal and moral framework not just in the UK but in the European Union.
The UK has received waves of immigration throughout its history. These face greater tensions during a time of economic recession. While we have benefitted from substantial number of professionals and others from around the world, there is a sense of tension over lack of job opportunities, rising house prices and lack of resources and availability of public services in some specific areas. There seems to be a need for mature discussion about these issues, without jeopardizing the good community cohesion measures in place. On the other hand, we should never loose sight of the great contribution immigrants have made over the years to the United Kingdom. Our distinguished panel of speakers will elaborate on the issues and the topic above.
As places are limited kindly reserve a place by return or phone call. We look forward to hearing from you and seeing you on the 24th.
On behalf of Community Cohesion Working Group (CCWG) committee members:
Ms. Vanessa Edwards: CCWG Secretary; Cllr. Liaquat Ali: former Mayor of London Borough of Waltham Forest; Mrs. Ruth Louise Barnett: Holocaust educator; Cllr. Janet Baddeley: Watford Borough Council; Cllr. Mushtaq Lasharie: Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea & Chair of 3rd World Solidarity; Mr. Alan Rainer: Interfaith activist & Religious Education teacher; Mr. Tim Miller: Chair of Hastings Interfaith Forum; Mr. Brij-Mohan Gupta: Chair of Hindu Culture and Heritage Society – UK; Cllr. Faizullah Khan: Former Speaker of London Borough of Hackney; Mr. Edwin Shuker: Vice President of the World Sephardic of Congress; Mr. Amarjeet-Singh Bhamra PhD IHM: Interfaith activist and Ayurveda Consultant; Mr. Sukbir Singh: Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha – Birmingham UK; Ms. Angad Kaur: Guru Ram Das Project; Mrs. Joyce Suda: Director of UPF.
Contents 1. Introduction
2. Iran’s Nuclear stand-off with the West and its dangers
3. The alternatives for the future stability in the Middle East
4. Middle East Nuclear Weapons Free Zone – a dream or a reality
5. Conclusion
Speaker: Vijay Mehta
Email: Vijay@vmpeace.org
Other speakers include:
Mohammad Sahebi First Secretary Iran Embassy,
Jeremy Corbyn MP,
Baqer Moin BBC Journalist,
Rita Payne Chair CJA
Contact: Dr. Suaad Eltaif Alfitouri, Society Outreach
0 777 576 3122 or 07950183882 Introduction
Thank you Suaad and Society Outreach for inviting me to speak today. This meeting is very timely as the Iran nuclear issue is at the centre of world politics. We are living in times of great uncertainty with Terrorism, proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and conflict in Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan taking centre stage in the International agenda. At present Israel and US are engaged in a military show of strength in what is believed to be the largest ever joint military exercises in land, sea and air in missile defense. There are rumours that this is in preparation of a military
strike by Israel on Iran. Not long ago Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, said she was prepared to obliterate Iran. The last thing we want is the continuing stand-off between Iran, Israel and West to turn into a one of the first horrific nuclear wars in the Middle East region. The suprise element is only a matter of timing.
Today the Middle East is on the precipice of Nuclear Proliferation. Israel has 200 nuclear weapons which have never been declared and has a policy of ambiguity for decades. It is well known that Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Tunisia and Yemen have declared that studies are underway for moving down the nuclear development road. With each nuclear stop, mistrust is heightened and suspicions grow in a region prone to distrust. Arabs and Iranians do not see Israeli nuclear weapons as defensive precaution. Whether Iran’s goal is peaceful or not the fear and suspicion that nuclear technology brings now threatens to spark an arms race that no one can win.
The West sees the rise of the nuclear Iran as a danger and security risk not just to Israel but entire Middle East and rest of the world. Looking from Iran’s point of view, if Israel in the region has 200 or more nuclear weapons, the way to safeguard from a possible attack is to keep on enriching uranium for peaceful energy and keep its option open. The question is can enough trust be build between the West, Iran and Israel where diplomacy and dialogue can triumph for a peaceful future. There is a temporary respite in the standoff as the agreement is being negotiated between Iran
and the west which will hopefully give confidence and trust. What I intend to do it is to explore the stand-off between Iran and west, what are the alternatives and if the dream of a nuclear free or weapons of mass destruction free Middle East can be turned into a reality.
Iran and Nuclear stand-off with the West Israel and the West state Iran is developing nuclear weapons while Iran has repeatedly stated that their nuclear programme is solely for peaceful civilian purposes. This has been going on for 3 decades. The arguments put forward by the West are as follow.
Iran today has the 3rd largest reserves of oil in the world and the 2nd second largest reserves of natural gases so why the desire for nuclear power to produce electricity. Iran’s answer is that it needs to develop nuclear energy as
oil will run out sooner than later. If it has the nuclear energy it can sell oil at a higher price, which makes sense.
Iran has 6 reactors for domestic production and their Uranium deposits and reserves are only sufficient for 10 – 12 years. You cannot build a whole industry if you are going to get 10 – 12 years out of it. So the argument is it is not for producing electricity but for manufacturing atomic bombs. Iran has denied any such intention. It has repeatedly stated that it will not abandon its to enrich uranium as the country has a right to civilian nuclear energy, as do all nations. Iran according to IAEA had produced 839 kg of low enriched Uranium. By August 2009 that number had reached 1,508 kg. The need for an atomic bomb is 700 kg of low enriched Uranium which you put back into modified centrifuges to rich the higher enriched weapons grade uranium. 700 kg of low enriched uranium will yield about 20 – 25 kg of weapons-grade uranium, meaning that Iran can now produce 2 atomic bombs. I think if Iranian leaders perceive a severe external threat, they are unlikely to back away from their pursuit of a nuclear option.
The recent reports of the secret uranium enrichment site constructed near Quam, disclosed by President Obama, has outraged some of the countries in the West. The fact of the matter is that Iran voluntarily informed International
Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of this facility long time ago. Obama lied that Iranians were covering up a secret nuclear facility. The rhetoric coming from the Iranian leadership, especially from President Ahmadinejad, and its holocaust denial is not helpful in diffusing the tensions and also adds to the fact that there may be cover-up in the Iran’s activities. Iran should be a more open and transparent society, a centre for trade, commerce, and culture.
What are the alternatives for the future stability of the Middle East Engage with Iran diplomatically and build trust going forward
Iran has a right to its civil nuclear energy programme. However, it should keep it transparent and open to supervision by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
Iran should buy low enriched Uranium from the world market instead of mining it. It clears all the suspicion in the eyes of the international community.
All parties should keep away from rhetoric, provocations, threats, acts of terrorism and proxy wars
Israel need to come clean and declare its nuclear arsenal and the amount of enriched Uranium it has. It also need to end the illegal, unjust annexation of occupied territories.
The international community need to condemn Israel (who never declared its stock of nuclear weapons), India and Pakistan for possessing nuclear weapons. On the contrary, these countries are given help with nuclear
technology know-how. The only countries always condemned are Iran, North Korea, and Syria. It is time these countries are not marginalised and become part of International community
There should be an end or relaxation of sanctions inviting more investments in the vital oil and gas sector of Iran.
The energy needs of the Middle East can be met by using the enormous power of sun and wind instead of resorting to the disastrous nuclear path. It leaves a legacy of deadly radioactive waste to be dealt with for thousands of years.
This should be a priority
All parties should stop the endless cycle of talks on nuclear programmes which has been going on for 3 decades and conclude agreement for nuclear disarmament which should lead to a Middle East Nuclear Weapons Free Zone.
Middle East Nuclear Weapons Free Zone (NWFZ) – a dream or a reality In 1974, Iran under the Shah, with Egypt’s near immediate support, became the first to propose an NWFZ in the Middle East to the UN General Assembly. Israel
abstained from votes on the resolution for several years but then suddenly produced its own draft in 1980, asking for direct negotiations between the countries in the region rather than installing a zone by universal consensus. After negotiations with Egypt, the Israeli draft of the resolution was withdrawn, and for the first time, all of the countries in the region voted unanimously in favour of a slightly revised Egyptian draft. Nevertheless, little political progress ensued.
One decade later, a UN expert study explored the complex issues involved in establishing such a zone and in 1991 proposed a series of measures to approach this lofty goal in an incremental way. At the same time, motivated by mounting evidence of the existence of chemical and biological weapons in the region and Israel’s apparent interpretation of its own nuclear capability as a deterrent against these weapons, Egypt’s president, Husni Mubarak, proposed to the international community to enlarge the concept of an NWFZ into a “zone free of weapons of mass destruction.” However, overall the talks failed owing to the profound differences of the parties, notably Egypt and Israel on the relationship among nuclear disarmament, general arms control and peace. Although Iran’s acquisition of nuclear weapons is not inevitable, other countries’ worries about a nuclear-armed Iran could lead states in the region to develop new security arrangements with external powers, acquire additional weapons, and consider pursuing their own nuclear ambitions. It is not clear that the type of stable deterrent relationship that existed between the great powers for most of the Cold War would emerge naturally in the Middle East with a nuclear-weapons capable Iran.
Episodes of low-intensity conflict taking place under a nuclear umbrella could lead to an unintended escalation and broader conflict if clear red lines between those states involved are not well established. The present nuclear situation in the Middle East is neither stable nor tenable. Israel’s deterrent policy has failed in many respects, and the efforts of other states to acquire nuclear weapons or other WMD has further destabilized the region. The escalation of regional violence demonstrates that neither the status quo nor the prevailing alternative strategies are in line with either side’s security and welfare interests. Under these circumstances, the proposal for an NWFZ and a WMDFZ, utopian as it
may seem, warrants a fresh and serious look. The fate of the proposals is closely coupled with the peace process at large. To develop them, fundamental shifts in the basic positions of both sides are required. An end to terrorism and occupation are probably the two key elements necessary to move both the peace process and the negotiation process on prohibiting WMD in the region forward in tandem. Even a good start, however, leaves the parties with many
difficult issues with which to grapple, and obvious solutions do not abound. Enforcement is a case in point. In other areas, such as verification, multiple models are on the table, such as adopting the regional verification system as opposed to the one contained in the Non-nuclear Proliferation Treaty (NPT) or entrusting enforcement to the parties themselves; an international body; or another, powerful actor. Nevertheless, because of their different qualities, reaching an agreement will not be easy. Even if a fundamental shift in basic political positions, probably resulting from strong outside pressure, were to occur, such a zone would not appear immediately. It will need to follow a long and protracted process of relatively small steps, involving procedure, substance, and practice, occurring in succession.
Conclusion Nuclear weapons have different symbolic meanings for the parties involved. For Israel, they are the ultimate guarantor of national survival against hostile Arab and Iranian neighbours that are superior in human and financial resources. Only a lasting and sustainable peace could mitigate and satisfy this concern to a degree that Israel might be willing to put its nuclear capability on the negotiating table. As long as terrorists continue to harm Israeli civilians, however, and Iran and Arab governments continue to condone, if not support, these terrorist attacks, many Israelis will see their neighbours’ quest for peace as a rhetorical ruse aimed at disarming Israel while seeking the ultimate goal of its destruction. The memory of the Holocaust, the worst genocide in human history, sustains this fear in indelibly sharp relief and leads many Israelis to believe that nuclear weapons will shield them from a future holocaust. However, the recent war proved the uselessness of the nuclear arsenal. On the Arab side, which has grudgingly come to accept Israel’s existence as a matter of fact, perceptions are quite different. If Israel has any concerns about national security, it’s still growing conventional superiority over its neighbours, proven in a series of victorious wars, should provide all the assurance necessary. Thus, the Arab and Iranian worlds view Israel’s nuclear weapons not as a last-resort deterrent, but rather as a protective umbrella under which the illegal and unjust annexation of the occupied territories continues. Arabs and Iranians do not see Israel’s nuclear weapons as a defensive precaution under which Israel can explore possibilities for peace. Instead, they see an offensive instrument that impedes Israel’s willingness to return to its early 1967 borders, which the Arab side believes is the core part of the only peace possible.
The actions of domestic forces on either side strengthen these respective perceptions. Elements in Arab societies, frequently motivated by fanatic and extremist interpretations of Islam, do indeed want to destroy Israel. Extremist
elements in Israeli society, many of them equally motivated by a fundamentalist interpretation of the Bible, would violently oppose a withdrawal from the occupied territories. The existence of these groups has further inflamed hostilities, making an NWFZ, much less broader peace, more remote; strengthening existing images of the
enemy; and enhancing distrust.
Let me quote Hans Blix who said and i quote: “I do not underestimate the problems of a zonal agreement – for instance those of verification, or outside assurances about security and the supply of uranium fuel. Yet the Obama administration, with the support of many governments, is seeking nuclear disarmament for all – including the
original sinners – and both non-proliferation and disarmament are now on the agenda of the UN Security Council. The Middle East looks like a region in need of a bold broad approach.”
Israel and Iran’s officials have held secret talks recently to explore the possibility of declaring the Middle East a nuclear Free Zone. This has been reported by Israeli newspaper, Haaratz and also leaked by Australian Daily Age. I hope they continue the negotiations to resolve the urgent issues in the Middle East for strengthening the non-proliferation regime and working towards Middle East nuclear free zone.
Let me conclude with a positive note by reciting a poem by one of the most inspiring, and greatest Persian poets of the 13th century, Jalal-ad-Din-ar-Rumi who said about divine love which transcends religious differences. I quote
The religion of love is apart from all religions:
For lovers (the only) religion and creed is god
‘Not Christian or Jew or Muslim
Not Hindu, Buddhist, Sufi or Zen
Not any religion or cultural system
I am not from the east or the west…
I belong to be beloved
And have seen the two worlds as one
If we follow Rumi’s words of wisdom, we can all live in a safer world
Thank you for listening.
Notes and bio on back page. The following publications were consulted and excerpts have been taken from them during the writing of this article:
1. The Washington Quarterly, A Nuclear Weapons–Free Zone in the Middle East: A Pie in the Sky? Winter 2004-05
2. A talk by Vijay Mehta, “Working for a world free of nuclear weapons – what can the United Nations and civil society do?” 21st September 2009 Universal Peace Federation 43 Lancaster Gate, London, W2 3NA
3. Newsweek, ‘Containing Nuclear Iran,” Fareed Zakaria, 12 October 2009
4. BBC News, “Iran nuclear fuel deal agreed,” 22nd October 2009
Biography: Vijay Mehta Vijay Mehta is president of VM Centre for Peace www.vmpeace.org , Founding Trustee of Fortune Forum Charity www.fortuneforum.org , Chair of Action for UN Renewal www.action-for-unrenewal.org.uk and co-Chair of World Disarmament Campaign. He is an author, a champion for truth and global activist for peace, development, human rights and environment. Some of his notable books are The Fortune Forum Summit: For a Sustainable Future, Arms No More, and The United Nations and Its Future in the 21st Century.
His latest book is on Global Warming and is called ‘Climate Change IQ,’ which is available to download free of charge in electronic form from the website www.climatechange365.co.uk
He along with his daughter Renu Mehta founder of Fortune Forum charity held three summits in London in 2006, 2007 and 2008. The summits raised over a million pounds for charity and attracted a worldwide audience of 1.3 billion people (one fifth of humanity) including print and media coverage. The keynote speakers for the first and second summit were Bill Clinton, former US President and Al Gore, former US vice-President, and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize 2007. The guest speakers in 2008 were Ted Turner, Founder of CNN, Amritya Sen and Sir James Mirrlees both Nobel Prize winning Economists.
Vijay Mehta has appeared in various TV programmes including BBC World, Press TV, Ajtak-24 hour Indian news channel, and Think Peace documentary, Canada, among others. The Sunday Times, Independent, Observer, Irish Times and Guardian newspapers, among other journals have written about him. His life is devoted to the service of peace, humanity and our planet.
Upcoming Universal Peace Federation – UK Programmes
Click on the links for further information.
November 18th – 5:00 pm - Commemorating Dr LM Singhvi’s Interfaith Contribution and Joint Celebration of Religious Holy Days: Hosted by Prof. Lord Bhikhu Parekh in Committee Room 4A, House of Lords. We have a wonderful opportunity to celebrate National Interfaith Week and to commemorate the late Dr L.M. Singhvi’s contribution to interfaith work. Dr Singhvi, as a distinguished seven year Indian High Commissioner to the UK, left a deep impression particularly in his encouragement of good interfaith relations. The UPF Interfaith Committee’s series of Joint Celebrations of Holy Days seeksto provide opportunities for younger and older faith representatives to express their faith and to both learn about and celebrate other religious traditions.
November 24th – 5:00 pm – ‘Immigrants Contribution to British Society’ Committee Room 12, House of Commons: Lord Bikhu Parekh, Chair of ‘Future of Multi-Ethnic Britain’ Report in 2000, Ms Yasmin Alibhai- Brown – distinguished Journalist and Commentator, Mr Tom Brake MP – Liberal Democrat Spokesperson on Home Affairs and Mr Keith Best – Chief Executive, Immigration Advisory Service.
The UPF Bi-annual Peace Council Meeting is a gathering of Ambassadors for Peace and friends to review activities and strategise how to utilise the cooperative influence of UPF’s growing national and international network. The Universal Peace Federation and its slogans of ‘one family under God’ and ‘living for the sake of others’ has incredible significance in this time of unsettling changes. The UPF Peace Council will begin at 10:30a.m. On Saturday 5th of December, with sessions up to lunch of reports and keynote speakers who have been supporting UPF events during the year.
100 People Who Have Shaped The Spiritual History Of Humanity
‘Beacons of The Light’
Address and Book Launch by Rev. Dr. MarcusBraybrooke
Book Signing Rev Dr Marcus Braybrooke
Photo link of the Beacons of the Light Event October 16th, 2009.
Rev Dr Marcus Braybrooke with Respondents Imam Mahmadou Bocoum and Vijay Metha as well as MC Cllr. Margaret Ali
Rev Dr Marcus Braybrooke Booklaunch with Dr Naznin Hirji
Imam Dr Mamadou Bocoum praised Rev Dr Marcus Braybrooke’s scholarship in writing such a book covering so many significant spiritual figures and for his investment as his teacher in the Muslim College during his Masters course. He quoted, ‘there is one light and there are different flames coming from that light’.
He mentioned that Abraham is the only prophet who became Haleel or the ‘ultimate friend of God’. He had to pay a heavy price to accomplish this title. Many other faiths want to take this person as their own faith’s exclusive founder or leading influence. This book reveals the claims and counterclaims on Abraham.
Imam Bocuom also reflected on the words ‘wherever there is love there is God but not wherever there is God there is love’.
During the Q. and A. Rev. Braybrooke was asked the question, ‘can spirituality exist without a religion?’ He replied, ‘Religions can meet best where they meet their call in God. The Dalai Llama said that for spirituality religion was not necessary. Others are rooted in a faith during their childhood even if they leave the faith later on in life and so it is difficult to separate their religion and their spirituality.’
Asked about those figures who are not included Rev. Braybrooke admitted that there are many more than one humndred figures mentioned but not as a separate section. In the end he said the criteria was how influential they were and after that there had to be some arbitrary selection.
Please see below or here for the response of Mr Vijay Mehta to ‘Beacons of the Light’.
Photo link of the Beacons of the Light Event October 16th, 2009.
It was a pleasure attending the book launch and thanks to Robin Marsh and Margaret Ali for giving me an opportunity to forward a response to the book.
It was nice the way Rev. Dr. Marcus Braybrooke introduced his book as the spiritual rich list. In a very meaningful, humorous way, Dr Braybrooke described his remarkable book to showcase people who have shaped our world and the history of humanity. In a sense it is about our interconnectedness. We are all responsible for one another’s actions as we will live in an age of mutual engagement.
In his introduction Dr Braybrooke has pictured the spiritual history of mankind and I quote “as a great river with various springs, sources and tributaries, always changing sometimes dividing, but moving forward enriching the present and opening new vistas for the future.” What a profound statement. I have picked up a few highlights from the book. However I am not able to do justice as the book only arrived yesterday owing to the postal strike.”
Among the outstanding features is a continuous stream of spiritual people who have influence and inspired us by the writings and actions defining in different ways our relationship to the divine and supreme. One common theme appears to be the desires of all people of all faiths to be in oneness with the Supreme Being as the ultimate goal. This thought of oneness is still inspiring the religious followers of all faiths and is still the ultimate goal which in other words can be put as salvation.
According to the Hindu scriptures the human body is gained after 840,000 births and deaths. When you are given the precious gift of being a human, you are given one chance to be free from the endless circle of death and birth and obtain moksha (salvation) through prayer, meditation, penance, devotion, good deeds, love, forgiveness, tolerance and kindness. That is in essence the teaching of all faiths and religions. In certain cases, it is the selfless service, sacrifices through non-violence, interfaith fellowship to reach the ultimate reality.
Out of the 100 holy men described in the book 23 are from the Indian Origin and many others who are influenced by Indian thought and philosophy. There influences are far reaching and is felt in all part of India and around the world. This is evident from the fact that you can find Holy Men in most parts of India seen everywhere in daily life. Among the great Indian Holy men, the notables are Buddha, Chaitanya, Shankra, Kabir, Guru Nanak, and Gandhi just to name a few. Their influence has been far reaching specially Buddha and Gandhi whose theory and practice of non-violence which has reached worldwide practiced by the likes of Dalai Lama and Martin Luther King. I should also mention Emperor Asoka who is credited with making Buddhism a world religion. It is fair to say that if there is no Asoka, then there would be no Buddhism today.
In the last chapter, ‘which beacon shines most brightly’ is fascinating not because it lists holy people who made a difference but it also gives the much needed perspective of other religions and gifts and inspirations to the people who have very little knowledge of other religions than their own. Religion no doubt has been a great source of strength and a source of cross-culture harmony in this world full of turmoil.
However, there are things hard to explain in religion which maybe legitimising violence, holy wars, killings and genocide. Is god a loving, supreme, holy light which is so tolerant that these questionable atrocities keep happening in our world? Among other questions which can be asked is if the dominance of patriarchal attitude of religion (of which women have been excluded for so long) and god has always been portrayed in the masculine form. Also one’s own salvation an ultimate goal of religion is meaningless if billions of people around us are living in poverty, squalor and hunger. Also, the author orthodoxy and radicalism in religion needs to be dealt with. The obvious example is the extremism of the Taliban and Al-Qaeda in Pakistan and Afghanistan, and how it can be contained. How can we make religion and faith meaningful in the 21st century, especially to the younger generation and teach them the rights/wrongs of this world.
However, on a positive note as Dr Braybrooke said in his introduction, and I quote “my hope is that we all become aware of the varied spiritual heritage which we now share we shall now discover the spiritual resources to enable us to live together in peace, to relive the suffering of the hungry and marginalise and to treasure the planet that has been entrusted to us.” I hope the book ‘beacons of light’ will transforms our lives in a meaningful way and awaken our quest for truth. If that transpires then the writing of the book by Dr Braybrooke will be an invaluable contribution to humanity.
Special Welding Training for Muslim Brothers in Davao City
Project Recipients: 50 Muslim Brothers from the different Barangays in Davao City
Title of the Training: Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW NC II)
Start of Training: July 20, 2009
End of Training: October 15, 2009
Graduation Day: October 16, 2009
Project Proponent: JIB Welding Academy (Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation)
Cooperators: TESDA – XI
City Government of Davao (Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte)
Service for Peace
Office of Councilor Maria Belen Sunga Acosta
ABS CBN – Davao
Backgrounder:
Muslim community in Davao City is one of the oldest established communities. The steady growth of this community over the last twenty years and the expansion of its organizational activities warrant the allocation of resources so that their various needs can be properly addressed.
In order to contribute to uplift the lives and give career guidance to our Muslim brothers in Davao City the JIB Career Center Foundation who owns and managed JIB Welding Academy through its Corporate Social Responsibility Program (CSR) conceptualized a FREE special welding skill training to the 50 Muslim brothers to be equipped with the skills needed for them to be globally competitive. Through the Pangulong Gloria Scholarship (PGS) implemented by TESDA – XI and the Scholarship grants of the JIB Foundation this training was made possible with the support from the City government of Davao through the Honorable City Mayor, Rodrigo R. Duterte and Service for Peace. ABS-CBN – Davao is the lead media partner and office of Hon Councilor Maria Belen Sunga Acosta as cooperator.
Part I.
On July 15, 2009 the 50 identified Muslim scholars have undergone the orientation with the JIB Welding Academy regarding their schedules and the training expectations. Ms. Nely Medrozo, was the lead trainer for these 50 scholars. Ms. Medrozo divided the 50 scholars into 2 schedules the whole training did have the morning and afternoon trainings at 4 hours per day.
The scholars took up the following subjects before spending the rest of their training at the laboratory;
Review on their Basic English Language
How to make an application letter/resume
How to face a job Interview
Participation and Communication in the Work Place
Interpretation of Sketches, Drawings, Estimates and Calculations
Safety Practices
Part II
In the middle of their training one of the major cooperators of the project Service for Peace represented by Mr. Massimo Trombin together with Dr. Michael J. Lenaghan gave a career orientation on the scholars.
Part III
The scholars participated also during the 1st JIB – MHBian Welding Gold Cup…the Skill Olympics, a welding skill competition participated by the alumni and students of the JIB Welding Academy last September 30, 2009 the event was organized in connection with the celebration of the 2nd year anniversary of the Academy. The rest of the scholars had fun joining the quiz bowl and took part in the other games during the fun filled celebration.
Part IV
The scholars also had their final exam last October 8, 2009 and after that they were preparing for their assessment tests that were conducted last October 13, 14 & 15, 2009 with TESDA representatives. After all exams and tests were evaluated and completed the scholars had their graduation rites last October 16, 2009 with no less than Honorable Sara Z. Duterte as Guest speaker. The Chairperson of the JIB Welding Academy Ms. Joji Ilagan Bian, Engr. Nestor S. Tabada, Provincial Director of TESDA – XI and Mr. Rizal Dalkilich, Director for Mindanao of Service for Peace were among the guests during the graduation rites. The event was covered by the lead media partner of the project ABS CBN. The cooperators and guests of the event gave their messages during the graduation. The scholars are now processing all their requirements for their On the Job training with the industry.
Part V PHOTO DOCUMENTATION
The Signing of the Working Paper
Project working paper signed. JIB Welding Academy, TESDA – XI< City Government of Davao, ABS CBN and SERVICE FOR PEACE.
Training Proper
The scholarship recipients during their training
Career Guidance
Service for Peace Dr. Michael L. Lenaghan and Mr. Massimo Trombin
Sidelights
The scholars participating in the skill Olympics, Quiz Bowl and other fun activities during the JIB Welding Academy 2nd Year Anniversary last September 30, 2009
UPF Bristol Celebrate the Birthday of Mahatma Gandhi
It has become our tradition to celebrate Gandhi’s birthday every year. The 3rd year celebration was organized mainly by Dr Krishna, an Ambassador for Peace, and sponsored by Universal Peace Federation (UPF) – Bristol.
Celebrating the Birthday of Mahatma Gandhi
Dr Krishna was very happy to organize the event. As he was very enthusiastic, in preparation of the day, he announced the date and location of the event everyday at the Hindu temple. We had a wonderful time with more than 50 guests and ITV (local news TV station) came to film us. It was featured on TV the next day. Edward Stacy gave an introduction to UPF. After that some people became very interested to become an Ambassador for Peace.
Mahatma Gandhi’s Prayer of Peace:
I offer you peace.
I offer you love.
I offer you friendship.
I see your beauty.
I hear your need.
I feel your feelings.
My wisdom flows from the highest source.
I salute that source in you.
Let us work together.
For unity and peace.
There will be a UPF showcase event in Bristol on the 24th October at the Unitarian Chapel, Brunswick Court, Brunswick Square, Bristol, BS2 8PE, from 12:00 midday until 3:00 pm. (Click here for map.)
UPF Bristol strives to bring together various diverse groups to encourage dialogue and co-operation regarding the many issues that our society is facing. We would like to celebrate our achievement together with all supporters. Also our guest speaker will speak on UPF worldwide work in Russia, China and Tibet etc. Please come with your friends and families.
The day featured two sessions. The first session in the morning in a meeting room in 43 Lancaster Gate was chaired by Rev. Dr. Marcus Braybrooke. Photo Link from the morning conference:
Dr Natubhai Shah
Bhai Mohinder Sahib Singh
The second session was held in Friends Meeting House including an Interfaith Water Ceremony and presentations by many faith and community leaders. Photo Link from the afternoon conference:
Report on the ‘Forgiveness and Reconciliation’ event by Connie Rennie
Interfaith Water Ceremony
Connie Rennie and Robert Haines Readings
Today I had the opportunity to take part in a ceremony at Friends meeting house where representatives of many different faiths came together to share the teachings, practices and experiences of forgiveness and reconciliation. It was a rare and wonderful sight to see so many different faiths being represented on one stage as each stood to share their viewpoint. The religious leaders included keynote speakers such as Dr Marcus Braybrooke: President World Congress of Faith and Rev Dr Sumana Siri: Buddhist Cardinal of Europe and many many more.
Differences are often emphasized between faiths and cultures, but by listening to the words of each of the leaders at the event today, one clear message was portrayed; forgiveness is a key aspect of a strong life of faith, which when practiced leads to peace within oneself, naturally allowing you to bring peace to others, as is described in Buddhist psychology, ‘He who loves himself will harm not another.’ Not only does forgiveness bring us closer to each other, but all faiths expressed that forgiveness brings us closer to God. One of names of God in the Qur’an is, ‘The Forgiver.’ In practicing forgiveness, do we not become God-like? One of the most important days of faith for Jewish believers, as described by Mr. Edwin Shuker: Sephardic Jewish Association, is ‘Yom Kippur ‘or ‘The day of Atonement’ where the relationship between God and humans is reconciled through repentance, and the seeking of forgiveness.
To see the similarities in the teachings on the topic was interesting, but what I felt really created a positive atmosphere of unity in the hall, was the practice of forgiveness. Chants of forgiveness from the Muslim, Jewish and Jain traditions were presented, as well as an interactive session where the audience were asked to stand and greet their neighbor as a representative of all things that they need to forgive, and tell them, ‘You are forgiven!’ We were also led through a meditation chant by Mayura Patel representing Hinduism. At this point I felt that peace and reconciliation between people of different faiths cannot be achieved simply by an intellectual understanding, but to respect each other as much as to be willing to practice each other’s traditions. Everyone in the room was willing to share and participate in the practices of other faiths, and I was so moved!
The highlight of the event was the ‘Interfaith Water Ceremony’ where representatives of each faith poured pure water into one single bowl, while reflecting on the virtues of water and its importance to Sikhs and Gurus, as described by Bhai Gurdas in his writing, ‘Be Compassionate Like Water.’ This ceremony is a symbol of the dissolution of resentments, and the desire to become one interreligious peaceful community. And after taking part in this event and seeing the example of the leaders today I feel inspired, and re-determined to practice forgiveness as one method to bring peace within myself, to those around me, and ultimately to God. Thank you!
Rev Dr Marcus Braybrooke Reporting on the Morning Conference
“Indigenous Peoples Forging Partnershipsfor Unity and Peace of One Family of God”
Tribal Summit
Malaybalay, Philippines - In the first tribal summit in Mindanao, which brought together more than 40 tribal chieftains along with educators, politicians, representatives from international NGOs, and religious practitioners from Christian, Muslim, and indigenous peoples, there was a new focus. They did not discuss terrorism, politics, military strategies, or arms control. Instead, they directed their energies on children’s education. In a word: peace for the sake of others, for our precious children.
Dr. Estrella A. Babano, Chairwoman of the Mindanao Peace Initiative and Region 10 Director of Department of Education, declared before an audience of over 250 people, “We must focus on our children. They are the common concern we all share, and this must be the framework and platform for our peace initiative.”
Babano went on to outline eight peace programs that highlight this youth-centered approach:
• The Peace Village is an out-of-classroom, residential program using a total immersion technique to have people experience different cultures and ways of life.
• The Arabic Language & Islamic Values Education program teaches children, both Muslim and non-Muslim, that Islam is a religion of peace.
• The Indigenous Peoples Education Center aims at functional literacy for underprivileged people to help uplift their self-esteem and enable them to advance socially.
• School of Peace educates administrators and trains teachers about the inherent value of each of the various peace programs available; then, on this foundation, it organizes Peace Education Centers using school systems.
• Harvest of Hope has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministries of Fisheries to train 240 Mindanaoans in aquaculture and fish processing.
• Child of Peace is an adopt-a-school scholarship program working through the Department of Education.
• Kids say “No” to Guns, billed as “turning arms into farms,” has children “surrender” their toy guns for saplings which they plant throughout the southern Philippine island.
• Peace Parks makes learning fun as small groups of eight to ten students visualize and then construct themes related to peace.
In the Opening Session, Dr. Chung Sik Yong, the Regional Chair of the Universal Peace Federation–Asia and special representative of the Universal Peace Federation Founder, Dr. Sun Myung Moon, said that, “the Universal Peace Federation sees ‘leadership’ as one of the most critical issues facing our world today, both in developed and developing nations.” He emphasized this by saying that good leadership was essential to peace and social development precisely because a good leader must emulate the qualities of a good parent—absolute unselfishness.
Florencio T. Flores, Jr., the Mayor of Malaybalay and host of the two-day Summit, said he eagerly responded to the Mindanao Peace Initiative invitation because “without peace, there is no development.” The city of Malaybalay is in the heart of the island of Mindanao, and the mayor was very grateful there had not been any bombing in the city so far.
The highest ranking educator attending the summit, the Under Secretary of the Department of Education Program on Indigenous Peoples, Dr. Manaros B. Boransing, presented an overview of the national curriculum that was developed to preserve the culture of all indigenous peoples throughout the Philippines.
Commissioner Jeanette C. Serrano-Reisland, the Ethnographic Region of Central Mindanao at the National Commission on Indigenous People, gave current data on the various tribal groups in the Philippines. She also praised President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo because although the ancestral domain legislation was passed 12 years ago, President Arroyo was the first to implement it by issuing land certifications. Dr. Norma Gonos, Senior Program Officer for Indigenous Peoples Education, described the components of the Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao experience, which concentrates on improving education for indigenous peoples.
In the afternoon session on the first day, Mr. Massimo Trombin, the International Vice-President of Service for Peace, delighted the audience when he told them that the Global Peace Festival was conceived in and born in the Philippines in 2006. The chairman of the Global Peace Festival, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, was deeply touched by seeing the Filipino lifestyle that integrated Eastern and Western cultures.
Here the vibrant love for music, singing and dance is accompanied by the spirit of family where everyone is a Tito / Tita (uncle or aunt) or Kuya / Ate (older brother or sister). Filipinos immediately embrace so-called strangers as family, encapsulating the spirit of the Global Peace Festival with its motto of “One Family Under God.”
Finally, Dr. Robert Kittel, Director of Education for UPF-Asia, pleased the multicolored crowd dressed in native costumes by saying that UPF had a very simple solution that would ensure peace in one generation — marry your enemy. It may take time for parents to love their in-laws, he said, but there is an instantaneous, irrepressible love between grandparents and grandchildren that bridges any historical resentment.
Two events highlighted the second day: a morning workshop where delegates drafted resolutions for the “Mindanao Tribal Summit,” followed by a Global Peace Festival (nearly 35 such festivals have been held throughout the Philippines this year). Over 200 participants performed skits, prayed, sang, and danced.
Concluding the two-day program at the Kaamulan Cultural Center, tribal chieftains signed the “Mindanao Resolution,” and 25 Ambassador for Peace certificates were distributed.
This Mindanao Tribal Summit and Global Peace Festival September 26 and 27 were sponsored by the Universal Peace Federation, the Department of Education, the Province of Bukidnon, and the City of Malaybalay.
The UN International Day of Peace on September 21st at the UPF – UK Peace Centre, supporting UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s theme for the day, “We Must Disarm”. The International Day of Peace is a global call for ceasefire and non-violence. This year the Secretary-General is calling on governments and citizens to focus on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. Universal Peace Federation centres all around the world were supporting this event and included a declaration for this day that follows this report or by this link
Vijay Mehta, (below left Shanti Mehta and Vijay Mehta) Chair of World Disarmament Campaign and Action for UN Renewal, ‘Towards a world Free of Nuclear Weapons – can United Nations & civil society make it happen ?’ (Video Link)
He explained the world was overspending on war and underspending on peace and consequently how education and health budgets were suffering throughout the world. (Full speech link)
Prof. Bhupendra Jasani, (above right) King’s College London, Department of War Studies, is a specialist in Disarmament issues. He focused on the verification techniques that assist confidence building and facilitates disarmament. He illustrated the standard of currently commercially available satellite imagery and techniques for verification. He explained his impact on various Governments as well as the UN to improve verification methods and strategies. Video of his speech through link.
Moeen Yaseen, (Below Left) Founder Global Vision 2000 an Islamic International Think Tank: ‘The Military Influence on our Global Economy and the Need for a Paradigm Shift’ Video of his speech through link.
Jack Lynes: (Above Right) “Peace – a Jewish Perspective and some Food for Thought and Action” (A personal view.)
3) Five steps the United Nations can take for disarmament and a nuclear free world
4) What can civil society do?
5) Conclusion Introduction
Thank you Robin Marsh, Margaret Ali and Universal Peace Federation for inviting me here today to speak on an important and timely topic on ‘working for a world free of nuclear weapons – what can the United Nations and civil society do?’
There are renewed hopes as new opportunities for Global Disarmament appear on the horizon for the first time in decades. There is a strong will towards nuclear disarmament and this opportunity must be seized. These include a Security Council summit on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation on the 24th of September chaired by President Obama, talks between the Russian Federation and the USA for joint initiative to reduce their arsenal under START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) treaty. It is also timely as various initiatives worldwide are being launched to build a momentum for the successful conclusion of nuclear disarmament agenda at next year’s 2010 Review Conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Hence today’s meeting is important. It is also important because we are celebrating the UN International Day of Peace. Meetings like ours are happening all over the world.
Thank you for all the good work being done by your organisation on an ongoing basis. It is a privilege to be among peace campaigners. You are thinkers and change makers, the driving force for social change in our world.
Threats posed by nuclear weapons
Today we will be exploring not only getting rid of Trident UK nuclear submarine system but also bigger nuclear proliferation problems which require new proposals and viable solutions. It needs a new mindset. As Albert Einstein said, “the significant problems we have cannot be solved at the same level of thinking with which we created them.”
There are 30,000 nuclear warheads in the possession of the declared nuclear weapon states USA, Russia, France, UK and China (the P5 states) with their arsenals on hair-trigger alert. On top of that there is worldwide proliferation of nuclear weapons and technology which is being deployed by countries such as India, Pakistan, Iran, North Korea and Israel. When so much military hardware is available around the world terrorists can easily create mayhem by indiscriminate mass killing and destruction. Political violence, organised crime and inciting fear in the civilian population are becoming the hallmark of new terrorism. The war on terror has offered a whole set of justifications for countries to increase their arsenals and push the budget on military spending, which is currently running at $1.4 trillion.
The development of mini nukes and bunker buster bombs by US and its doctrine of pre-emption which has replaced arm control and collective security have made the world a far less secure and stable place. It also gives wrong signals to other countries as they feel vulnerable to attack.
The Non-Proliferation Treaty has been completely ignored by the major nuclear powers because under its provisions the nuclear powers have pledged themselves to negotiate nuclear disarmament and never to use nuclear weapons against a non-nuclear state – a pledge that has been ignored, with direct threats that they might be used if a nuclear state felt endangered.
Twenty years after the end of the Cold War, the terrifying hallmark of which was the nuclear arms race and the doctrine of mutual assured destruction continue to exist. Their existence poses the greatest threat to the human race and the planetary environment.
In this presentation, I will argue that nuclear weapons have no utility and that any security issues they are purported to solve would only be made worse by their use.
There is no serious problem on which military action may be needed which cannot be solved through the use of peaceful dialogue. Most disturbing is that possession of nuclear weapons is proliferating, which enlarges the possibility that they may be acquired by non-State groups.
However, especially in the P5 states, the view is common that nuclear weapons from the first wave of proliferation somehow are tolerable, while such weapons in the hands of additional states are viewed as dangerous.
So long as any state has nuclear weapons, others will want them. So long as any such weapons remain, there is a risk that they will one day be used, by design or accident. And any such use would be catastrophic. Nuclear accidents, effects of radiation and damage to the environment pose grave threats to our world
Nuclear, biological and chemical arms are the most inhumane of all weapons. They are rightly called weapons of mass destruction and weapons of terror. Designed to terrify as well as destroy, they can, in the hands of either states or non-state actors, cause destruction on a vastly greater scale than any conventional weapons, and their impact is far more indiscriminate and long-lasting.
As weapons of mass destruction and disarmament form one of the gravest challenges facing the world, a world free of nuclear weapons is a global public good of the highest order. Despite a longstanding taboo against using nuclear weapons, disarmament remains only an aspiration. So, is a taboo alone on the use of such weapons sufficient?
States make the key decisions where nuclear weapons are concerned. But the UN has important roles to play. It provides a central forum in which states can agree on norms to serve their common interests. It analyses, educates, and advocates in the pursuit of agreed goals.
Most states have chosen to forgo nuclear weapons, and have complied with their commitments under the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. Yet some states view such weapons as a status symbol, and some view them as offering the ultimate deterrent against nuclear attack, which largely accounts for the estimated 30,000 that still exist.
Unfortunately, the doctrine of nuclear deterrence is contagious, making non-proliferation more difficult and raising new risks that nuclear weapons will be used.
The world remains concerned about nuclear activities in North Korea and Iran, and there is widespread support for efforts to address these concerns by peaceful means.
There are also concerns that a “nuclear renaissance” is looming, with nuclear energy seen as a clean energy alternative at a time of intensifying efforts to combat climate change. The main worry is that this will lead to the production and use of more nuclear materials that may be used for making bombs, proliferation and terrorist threats.
The obstacles to disarmament are formidable including the daunting challenges of multiple crises: food, fuel, flu pandemic and financial crisis. But the costs and risks of its alternatives never get the attention they deserve. Consider the enormous opportunity cost of huge military budgets. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, global military expenditures last year exceeded $1.4 trillion. Ten years ago, the Brookings Institution published a study that estimated the total costs of nuclear weapons in the United States alone to be over $5.8 trillion, including future cleanup costs. By any definition, this is a huge investment that could have had many other productive uses, i.e. eradicating hunger, poverty, diseases and the adverse effects of climate change.
The world is over-armed and peace is under-funded. Military spending continues to rise everyday. It is now well above US trillion. More weapons are being produced. They are flooding markets around the world. They are destabilising societies. They feed the flames of civil wars and terror. Around the world, gun violence is the number one cause of civilian casualties.
Concerns over nuclear weapons’ costs and inherent dangers have led to a global outpouring of ideas to breathe new life into nuclear disarmament. We have seen the WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction) commission led by Hans Blix, the New Agenda Coalition, and Norway’s Seven Nation Initiative. Australia and Japan have launched the International Commission on Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament. Civil society groups and nuclear-weapon states have also made proposals, such as the Hoover Plan, spearheaded by Henry Kissinger. There is further ray of hope with the new American administration, under Barack Obama, who has pledged to show the world that America believes in its existing commitments under the NPT to work to ultimately eliminate all nuclear weapons.
Five steps the United Nations can take for disarmament and a nuclear free world
To push forward the agenda, the UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki Moon, put forward a five-point proposal.
Disarmament must enhance security
First, to urge all NPT parties, in particular the nuclear-weapon states, to fulfill their obligation under the treaty to undertake negotiations on effective measures leading to nuclear disarmament. They could agree on a framework of separate, mutually reinforcing instruments. Or they could consider negotiating a nuclear-weapons convention, backed by a strong verification system, as has long been proposed at the UN. A draft has been circulated to all UN members of such a convention, which offers a good point of departure.
The nuclear powers should actively engage with other states on this issue at the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva, the world’s single multilateral disarmament negotiating forum. The world would also welcome a resumption of bilateral negotiations between the US and Russia aimed at deep and verifiable reductions of their arsenals.
The Security Council’s permanent members should begin discussions on security issues in the nuclear disarmament process. They could unambiguously assure non-nuclear-weapon states that they will not be subject to the use or the threat of use of nuclear weapons. The council could also convene a summit on nuclear disarmament. Non-NPT states should freeze their own nuclear-weapon capabilities and make their own disarmament commitments.
Disarmament must be reliably verified
Secondly, governments should also invest more in verification research and development. The United Kingdom’s proposal to host a conference of nuclear-weapon states on verification is a concrete step in the right direction.
The NPT state parties should pursue negotiations in good faith on nuclear disarmament, either through a new convention or through a series of mutually reinforcing instruments backed by a credible system of verification.
Disarmament must be rooted in legal obligations
Thirdly, Universal membership in multilateral treaties is a key, as are regional nuclear free zones and a new treaty on fissile materials.
Unilateral moratoria on nuclear tests and the production of fissile materials can go only so far. We need new efforts to bring the comprehensive nuclear test ban treaty into force, and for the conference on disarmament to begin negotiations on a fissile material treaty immediately, without preconditions.
There should be efforts made to support the creation of the Central Asian and African nuclear-weapon-free zones which should also strongly support efforts to establish such a zone in the Middle East. And all NPT parties need to conclude their safeguards agreements with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and voluntarily to adopt the strengthened safeguards under the Additional Protocol.
Furthermore, an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice in 1996 stated that “there exists an obligation to pursue in good faith and bring to a conclusion negotiations leading to nuclear disarmament in all its aspects under strict and effective international control.”
Disarmament must be visible to the public
Fourthly, countries with nuclear weapons should publish more information about what they are doing about what they are doing to fulfill their disarmament agenda.
The nuclear-weapon states often circulate descriptions of what they are doing to pursue these goals. But these accounts seldom reach the public. The nuclear-weapon states should send such material to the UN Secretariat, and to encourage its wider dissemination. The lack of an authoritative estimate of the total number of nuclear weapons attests to the need for greater transparency.
Disarmament must anticipate emerging dangers from other weapons
Finally, a number of complementary measures are needed. These include eliminating other types of WMD; new efforts against WMD terrorism; limits on the production and trade in conventional arms; and new weapons bans, including of missiles and space weapons.
If there is real, verified progress on disarmament, the ability to eliminate the nuclear threat will grow exponentially. As we progressively eliminate the world’s deadliest weapons and their components, we will make it harder to execute WMD terrorist attacks. WMD should not stand for weapons of Mass Destruction but for We Must Disarm.
These proposals offer a fresh start not only on disarmament, non-proliferation, and peaceful use of nuclear energy, the three pillars of NPT, but also on strengthening our system of international peace and security leading to nuclear free world.
These can be enhanced by following the Article VI of the NPT which obliges its signatories “to pursue negotiations in good faith on effective measures relating to cessation of the nuclear arms race at an early date and to nuclear disarmament, and on a treaty on general and complete disarmament under strict and effective international control”.
What can civil society do?
Follow 13 Practical Steps for Disarmament which is reaffirmation that the ultimate objective of the efforts of States in the disarmament process is general and complete disarmament under effective international control. (see end of the speech)
Here is a list of action points – things that we can all do to oppose nuclear weapons and promote a nuclear weapons world:
Before anything – study the problem.
Write to your MP and to key decision makers and put pressure on government ministers. Urge UK government to send a delegation at ministerial level to represent the UK at the next NPT conference.
Ask your MP to sign the parliamentary motions.
Write letters to world leaders and the editor of newspapers.
Educate the public and organise a forum.
Plan a demonstration.
Hold a meeting or run a workshop.
Call a radio talk show.
Contact your local interfaith group to discuss the issue.
Make paper cranes to send to decision makers (they have become a symbol of disarmament).
Join the nonviolent initiatives for disarmament.
Attend a “Dialogue with decision-makers” workshop.
Get involved in your local disarmament group.
Promote complete and general disarmament by distributing information about 13 Practical Steps taken from the final document of 2000 Review Conference of the (NPT) Nuclear-non Proliferation Treaty. (see appendices to lecture).
Pray. The nuclear weapons danger cannot be addressed through action alone. All activism must be accompanied by an inner journey that faces the existence of nuclear weapons, the possibility of annihilation, and the power of God in the face of these threats. Religious people can be a voice of hope for the future.
Speak truth to power. Our elected officials are the ones who are making the daily decisions to fund new nuclear weapons or to follow our treaty obligations by reducing and eliminating nuclear weapons. Build a relationship with your local and national elected officials by writing letters, making phone calls, and setting up in-state lobby visits.
Conclusion
For total and general disarmament, education should be made a priority for bringing a culture of peace, nonviolence and reconciliation. By eliminating root causes of war we can eliminate the need for small arms and nuclear weapons leading to lasting peace. The world today spends billions preparing for war. Should we not spend a billion or two preparing for peace? The reduction of defense budgets and demilitarisation should be applied to fund the economic aid and conflict resolution.
One of the sustainable long term solutions for elimination of nuclear weapons will be the prohibition of weapon usable nuclear materials. By signing the FMCT (Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty) Treaty, we can prevent nuclear proliferation by limiting the available sources and hence increasing physical safety and security.
The United Kingdom and the other nuclear powers have to recognise that their own weapons and policies are part of the problem and hinder international efforts to abolish nuclear weapons and reduce proliferation incentives. Now is the time to begin phasing out nuclear weapons, starting with a decision not to replace Trident. Contrary to myth, giving up nuclear weapons will not happen overnight or leave the United Kingdom naked and vulnerable. It is high time to recognise their irrelevance and start planning for a safely managed transition to a more relevant security approach, with a more appropriate allocation of defence resources.
Now whilst the worlds leading nations talk of reducing nuclear weapons they still want to develop new weapons for themselves. This strikes me as a strategy that will never free the world of nuclear weapons.
That is why you and all other who care must ensure that governments will go into the non-proliferation talks next year ready to act. This is a precious opportunity to move towards a nuclear free world and i call upon you and all supporters of a world free of a threat of complete annihilation to sieze that opportunity.
It should be noted that Gandhi, was not only a keen supporter of substituting nonviolent resistance for war, but a sharp critic of the Bomb. In 1946, he remarked: “I regard the employment of the atom bomb for the wholesale destruction of men, women, and children as the most diabolical use of science.” When he first learned of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Gandhi recalled, he said to himself: “Unless now the world adopts non-violence, it will spell certain suicide.” In 1947, Gandhi argued that “he who invented the atom bomb has committed the gravest sin in the world of science,” concluding once more: “The only weapon that can save the world is non-violence.” The Bomb, he said, “will not be destroyed by counter-bombs.” Indeed, “hatred can be overcome only by love.”
I will close with a paragraph from Nobel Laureate Mohamed ElBaradei, director of IAEA:
“Imagine what would happen if the nations of the world spent as much on development as on building the machines of war. Imagine a world where every human being would live in freedom and dignity. Imagine a world in which we would shed the same tears when a child dies in Darfur or Vancouver. Imagine a world where we would settle our differences through diplomacy and dialogue and not through bombs or bullets. Imagine if the only nuclear weapons remaining were the relics in our museums. Imagine the legacy we could leave to our children. Imagine that such a world is within our grasp.”
If we can follow his wisdom and all the outline initiatives we have discussed today, then we have a golden opportunity to achieve a world free of nuclear arms. Thank you very much for listening.
Notes
The following publications were consulted and excerpts have been taken from them during the writing of this article:
1) Ban Ki Moon, “Five steps to a nuclear-free world” (Guardian, UK) 23 November 2008
2) Penn State Live, Ambassador to address U.S. foreign policy, nuclear disarmament, 6 February 2009. http://live.psu.edu/story/37444
3) Vijay Mehta, “Should Britain be building new nuclear weapons? What are its implications and what is the peace movement’s strategy?” 1 June 2006
Biography: Vijay Mehta
Vijay Mehta is president of VM Centre for Peace www.vmpeace.org , Founding Trustee of Fortune Forum Charity www.fortuneforum.org , Chair of Action for UN Renewal www.action-for-un-renewal.org.uk and co-Chair of World Disarmament Campaign. He is an author, a champion for truth and global activist for peace, development, human rights and environment. Some of his notable books are The Fortune Forum Summit: For a Sustainable Future, Arms No More, and The United Nations and Its Future in the 21st Century.
His latest book is on Global Warming and is called ‘Climate Change IQ,’ which is available to download free of charge in electronic form from the website www.climatechange365.co.uk
He along with his daughter Renu Mehta founder of Fortune Forum charity held three summits in London in 2006, 2007 and 2008. The summits raised over a million pounds for charity and attracted a worldwide audience of 1.3 billion people (one fifth of humanity) including print and media coverage. The keynote speakers for the first and second summit were Bill Clinton, former US President and Al Gore, former US vice-President, and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize 2007. The guest speakers in 2008 were Ted Turner, Founder of CNN, Amritya Sen and Sir James Mirrlees both Nobel Prize winning Economists.
Vijay Mehta has appeared in various TV programmes including BBC World, Press TV, Ajtak-24 hour Indian news channel, and Think Peace documentary, Canada, among others. The Sunday Times, Independent, Observer, Irish Times and Guardian newspapers, among other journals have written about him. His life is devoted to the service of peace, humanity and our planet.
13 Practical steps
EXCERPTED FROM THE FINAL DOCUMENT OF THE 2000 NPT REVIEW CONFERENCE
The Conference agrees on the following practical steps for the systematic and progressive efforts to implement Article VI of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and paragraphs 3 and 4 (c) of the 1995
Decision on “Principles and Objectives for Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament”:
1. The importance and urgency of signatures and ratifications, without delay and without conditions and in accordance with constitutional processes, to achieve the early entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty.
2. A moratorium on nuclear-weapon-test explosions or any other nuclear explosions pending entry into force of that Treaty.
3. The necessity of negotiations in the Conference on / Disarmament on a non-discriminatory, multilateral and internationally and effectively verifiable treaty banning the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices in accordance with the statement of the Special Coordinator in 1995 and the mandate contained therein, taking into consideration both nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation objectives. The Conference on Disarmament is urged to agree on a programme of work which includes the immediate commencement of negotiations on such a treaty with a view to their conclusion within five years.
4. The necessity of establishing in the Conference on Disarmament an appropriate subsidiary body with a mandate to deal with nuclear disarmament. The Conference on Disarmament is urged to agree on a programme of work which includes the immediate establishment of such a body.
5. The principle of irreversibility to apply to nuclear disarmament, nuclear and other related arms control and reduction measures.
6. An unequivocal undertaking by the nuclear-weapon States to accomplish the total elimination of their nuclear arsenals leading to nuclear disarmament to which all States parties are committed under Article VI.
7. The early entry into force and full implementation of START II and the conclusion of START III as soon as possible while preserving and strengthening the ABM Treaty as a cornerstone of strategic stability and as a basis for further reductions of strategic offensive weapons, in accordance with its provisions.
8. The completion and implementation of the Trilateral Initiative between the United States of America, the Russian Federation and the International Atomic Energy Agency.
9. Steps by all the nuclear-weapon States leading to nuclear disarmament in a way that promotes international stability, and based on the principle of undiminished security for all:
* Further efforts by the nuclear-weapon States to reduce their nuclear arsenals unilaterally.
* Increased transparency by the nuclear-weapon States with regard to the nuclear weapons capabilities and the implementation of agreements pursuant to Article VI and as a voluntary confidence-building measure to support further progress on nuclear disarmament.
* The further reduction of non-strategic nuclear weapons, based on unilateral initiatives and as an integral part of the nuclear arms reduction and disarmament process.
* Concrete agreed measures to further reduce the operational status of nuclear weapons systems.
* A diminishing role for nuclear weapons in security policies to minimize the risk that these weapons ever be used and to facilitate the process of their total elimination.
* The engagement as soon as appropriate of all the nuclear-weapon States in the process leading to the total elimination of their nuclear weapons.
10. Arrangements by all nuclear-weapon States to place, as soon as practicable, fissile material designated by each of them as no longer required for military purposes under IAEA or other relevant international verification and arrangements for the disposition of such material for peaceful purposes, to ensure that such material remains permanently outside of military programmes.
11. Reaffirmation that the ultimate objective of the efforts of States in the disarmament process is general and complete disarmament under effective international control.
12. Regular reports, within the framework of the NPT strengthened review process, by all States parties on the implementation of Article VI and paragraph 4 (c) of the 1995 Decision on “Principles and Objectives for Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament”, and recalling the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice of 8 July 1996.
13.The further development of the verification capabilities that will be required to provide assurance of compliance with nuclear disarmament agreements for the achievement and maintenance of a nuclear-weapon-free world.
THE MILITARY INFLUENCE ON OUR GLOBAL ECONOMY AND THE NEED FOR A PARADIGM SHIFT
Moeen Yaseen Managing Director Global Vision 2000
EMBARGOED
Monday 21 September 2009 6.30-8.30
Thanks to UPF for organisation of another event and the extension of the invitation to speak today. I wish to dedicate my contribution to the silent voices of millions of people who were sacrificed by the Warmongers. This contribution will not focus on the scientific, technical or legal dimensions but on the political economy of war and address the 800 pound gorilla in the room which we are in denial. As General Smedley Butler stated there are only two things we should fight for one is the defence of our homes and a Bill of Rights : War for any other reason is a racket. Last year in April 2008 Global Vision 2000 held a conference on the Global Financial Meltdown, socioeconomic injustice and war: cause and remedy with speakers from Stop the War Coalition, International Peace Bureau and the 9/11 Truth Movement. Today I will address the underlying ideological glue cementing the event.I will focus upon AngloAmerican imperialism and AngloAmerican financial usurious capitalism given it’s pre-eminent role with the British empire in the 19th century and Pax Americana in the 20th century to date. Jonathan Swift identified the following factors in the evolution of the imperial system:- Doctrine of Permanent War; War, Money power/Banking elite which benefits from the State’s indebtedness and Public debt as well as the Militarists and Military-Industrial-Political complex which President Eisenhower coined. This is the context we are dealing with namely a world where might is right and white is right and wherein the spirit of power prevails than the power of the spirit. The Global Financial architecture established in Bretton Woods by the financial oligarchy underwrites this dominant paradigm.
In the modern era the foundation of the Military Industrial Political Complex was established in 1939-45; in the postwar coldwar period the Trilateral Commission in 1968 established the National Security Apparatus and Military Keynesianism. Post 1989 with the collapse of the cold war with Bush wars we have seen the rise of the New World Order and Disaster Capitalism in which pre-emptive wars are built around deconstruction and reconstruction of societies by warprofiteers who plunder the Treasury/Currency. Economic policies are run to benefit the financial elites. Pre 9/11 we also have the Project for the New American Century to kick in the 21st American century which is ending up as an own goal.
Underpinning the Warfare economy exists the TRIAD of the Military Industrial Political complex interlocked to the concept of Permanent war entrenched since World War 2. In the postwar cold era Bush introduced the New World Order with seeds planted in the Middle East for future wars. This idea originated with the Trilateral Commission’s concept of the New International Economic Order wherein military might enforces foreign policy which is based on economic interests. It is an agenda of perpetual warfare and violence fuelling global domination via economic means. Also international organisations such as NATO devised for defence originally are being transformed into aggressive forces to enhance US economic and geopolitical interests with NATO in effect becoming a surrogate military-political force for globalisation and US world economic domination. As many people are asking what is NATO really doing in Afghanistan? What are British/European soldiers dying for? It should be noted that Afghanistan is a symbolic rock in history where empires have been smashed.
This warfare economy is a parasite which manipulates fears and paranoia; it trashes economies by diverting resources from domestic investment into productive uses such as green technologies and subverts university research massively. It reduces economic growth and employment. Indeed the 9/11 attacks on the US homeland were used as a Cassus Belli and for the establishment of a National Security State. The Global War on Terror manipulates fears; keeps us afraid and stops dissent. As far as 9/11 is concerned our thinktank rejects the official narrative as Alice in Wonderland mythology and supports the notion of the existence of the phenomenon of State sponsored false flag terrorism. But that is another story. The military economy operates outside a competitive market and erases the line between the State and the Corporation. Disguises it’s growth via the privitisation of war with the rise of mercenaries such as Blackwater- XE services which is in effect the largest private army in the world.
Insane expenditure on Department of Defence aka the Department of War has NO correlation to National Security- this has been hijacked by the Financial Oligarchs. see Chalmers Johnson. Melman has proven that the DoD budget is the largest single block of financial capital resources. The exact costs are difficult to verify as there is a cloud of secrecy over it. Melman argues that since 1944 the US Federal Government has spent more than 50% of it’s entire budget on past, current and future military operations and this underwrites the permanent war economy. The Mlitary budget is greater than all other nations at 623 Billion for 2008 not counting the supplemental budget nearing 3000 Billion for the wars(Stiglitz). N.B 30-40% of DoD budget is BLACK i.e. hidden for classified purposes The true size and cost for the US mil empire is 1100 billion for 2008.
The Official Pentagon inventory includes:-
865 facilities/bases in over 40 countries;
190.000 troops in 46 countries this does not cover privitisation of war via contracted security firms which are mercenary armies
2 Billion dollars spent every day
US budget deficit of 1.75 Trillion and National Debt of 10.6 Trillion
Military Keynesianism see Seymour Melman on Pentagon Capitalism focusses on the political economy of war .Massive trade deficits financed by borrowing and the National debt is 10 Trillion in 2009. Therefore Military expenditure is Military Keynesianism used to keep and maintain a Permanent war economy and military output is seen as ordinary economic product although it makes no contribution towards production and consumption. Even with Obama in Congress who swept into power on change has backtracked as Congress is not willing or able to articulate a rejection of the War economy. The economy has become preoccupied with Death; namely the business of killing and being killed. The war economy thrives on aggressive war and a perverse realpolitik of national security. There is a tacit acceptance of much that threatens to destroy anything and everything.
Hollowing out of the US economy has occurred with the lack of modernisation and replacement of assets has almost evaporated the US manufacturing base. The US is now the world’s leading Debtor nation with it’s influence reliant on it’s Military Industrial Political Complex which I would argue underpins the IMPERIAL DOLLAR.
SOLUTION
QUID PRO QUO for the survival of the USA in a Multi-polar world of Creditor nations:-
1. To save the dollar and the nation it requires a NATIONAL VOLTE FACE to show humility and repentance
2. Repudiation of the Neocon goal to achieve US Global hegemony
3. Liquidation of the American military empire and its overseas bases
4. Cessation of DoD budget as a Keynesianism jobs program and investment into a socially productive economy
CONCLUSION
We need to really reflect on Michael Jackson’s song Man in the Mirror; we need to look at this problem in the eye and make that change.
We need to end glorification of violence and repent. This entire military enterprise is surplus to requirement, damaging to the National Interest/security, cause of war with other nations. It shows a Global Hegemon in economic decline engaged in imperial outreach, perpetual war and insolvency with a real danger of the collapse and fragmentation of the US State.
Moeen Yaseen
(Note: Universal Peace Federation seeks to promote debate and discussion. Not all the views of contributors reflect a UPF perspective but are still welcome in the process of encouraging dialogue and seeking understanding.)
“Since wars begin in the minds of man, it is in the minds of man that the defenses of peace must be constructed.” (UNESCO Constitution, 1945)
On the occasion of and in support of the International Day of Peace, September 21st, 2009, for which Secretary General Ban-Ki Moon gave the motto “We Must Disarm” (WMD), with a focus on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, the Universal Peace Federation offers the following affirmations:
First, human conflict and the resort to arms and weapons have their roots in the breakdown of human relationships, and the human failure to live up to our highest ideals and aspirations. Violence is a symptom of a moral and spiritual failure. If we are to eliminate violence and weapons of mass destruction, we must commit ourselves to a moral and spiritual awakening.
Second, lasting peace is secured not only through the reduction of nuclear arsenals, but, more importantly, by the growth in solidarity among the whole human family, and a recognition that we are all brothers and sisters who share a common spiritual and moral heritage. We are one family under God. It is this understanding that gives rise to the collective will to put an end to violent conflict.
Third, being the basic, building block of society, the family serves as the primary school of ethics, and should serve as the school where we learn to love, respect and serve others. By strengthening marriage and family, we can educate our children to respect all people, thereby establishing a culture of peace. Once humanity learns to resolve conflicts without weapons, massive resources will be reallocated for human development.
Fourth, laws alone cannot change the culture of violence, but must be undergirded by substantial educational programs aimed a promoting character education, conflict resolution, and a culture of service and peace. Men and women who are taught to fulfill their moral obligations and responsibilities toward others will respect and live for the greater good and fulfillment of others.
The Universal Peace Federation thereby resolves to join the United Nations to declare September 21st as
The International Day of Peace
To Be Declared this 21st day of September 2009 London UK.
Lawrence Bloom, Marios Gerogiokas and Murad Qureshi
Murad Qureshi AM
Lawrence Bloom and Murad Qureshi AM discussed the alternatives facing London as a city and the world as a whole due to climate change. Lawrence Bloom, is the Chair of the United Nations Environment Programme and the former chairman, current Council Member, of the World Economic Forum, Global Agenda Council on Urban Development, Davos. Murad Qureshi AM is the Chair of the Environment Committee of the Greater London Authority’s London Assembly.
There were a number of notable contributions from the audience including Nicky Gavron AM who, as the former Deputy Mayor, was leading the climate change response on behalf of London during the Ken Livingston Mayoral administration.
Murad Qureshi began by emphasising the role of big cities like London in working with environmental issues because 50 % of humanity lives in cities and towns. Nation states will meet in Copenhagen but there is a lot of capacity for cities to collaborate and make their own impetus. He acknowledged Nicky Gavron’s work with the C40 Cities. London made a goal of 60 % reduction from 1990 levels by 2025. There is a localised green economy initiative possible through city level leadership. Transport and housing sectors can be handled locally. He added that a Plan B could be a city level agreement if the Copenhagen Climate Change Summit fails.
Lawrence Bloom said, ‘At first the Universal Peace Federation seems a strange convenor for this discussion but when I thought about the crisis facing us I felt this is an ideal venue for climate change discussion. Climate change is a subset of an unsustainable energy system. There is also a lack of sustainability in food, water and the economy. This is not a crisis of climate but of vision based on a lack of values. We in the west find esteem based on buying the newest car and happiness is based on Gross National Product. Correcting the climate will affect all levels. Hence the Universal Peace Federation is an ideal convenor for this discussion.’ (Please see statement below, Reclaiming Tomorrow).
