Posted on March 28, 2022July 5, 2024 by John Monyjok Maluth — Leave a comment

Serving: What It Is and Why It Matters

Understanding Serving Is Key to Serve Both God and Others Better

28^th March 2022

“Serving” is an article designed to enhance your comprehension of what it entails to serve God and others. The article explores the various ways we can serve, the reasons behind our service, and the impact of serving others. Service manifests in diverse forms, including commercial, mandatory, or voluntary work. It can be directed towards God, our fellow humans, or other living beings. As you read through this article, you will gain a deeper insight into the significance of serving others.

What Is Serving?

To serve is to perform an act of service for others or for a cause. For instance, teaching serves both the students and the institution where one teaches. Writing serves those who enjoy reading and are eager to discover new knowledge, ideas, and methods.

I engage in a serving ministry. Creating websites, translating from English to Dinka, Juba Arabic, and Nuer is a form of service. Similarly, interpreting from English into these languages serves the community. Publishing books for other authors on Amazon and in print is another way I serve.

Service can take various forms and sizes, and it aligns with one’s identity and passions. As mentioned, my natural inclination towards linguistics leads me to translate and interpret between languages. An unexpected task once had me translating from classical Arabic to Dinka, which was well-received by Arabic speakers. Consider for a moment what your service to the world is. Discover it.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

How Do We Serve God and People?

Service to God and others can take many forms. Sharing God’s message is one way to serve both divine and human interests. I find joy in teaching what I know, like God’s word and computer skills, which is why I author and publish computer guidebooks.

Your unique abilities allow you to serve humanity and God in your own capacity. This service can extend to other living beings and the environment, impacting creatures like animals, birds, insects, and worms. Humans have a responsibility towards these creatures, serving them in various ways. Yet, not everyone harbors affection for other beings or their fellow humans, often due to inherent traits or upbringing.

Nonetheless, we are summoned to serve both our fellow humans and God, as well as all of creation. My service is tailored to my personality and capabilities. As a freelancer, I pursue work that aligns with my passions, recognizing that sometimes survival necessitates taking any available work.

Why Serving?

The fundamental reason for serving ourselves, God, other humans, and the rest of creation lies in our inherent ability to do so. We act because we possess the individual capacity for action. Recognizing that each of us is called to serve in our own distinct ways is beneficial. I write and disseminate these thoughts across various platforms because I am capable and feel a sense of duty to share knowledge. This doesn’t imply my writings are unknown, but rather that I can express them in my unique style.

You, too, can serve God and His creation, including humanity, in your own special ways and for your personal reasons. For me, there’s a sense of fulfillment in serving God and others with my talents and resources. Pursuing my passion is my primary motivation for helping others.

Do you believe my writing and sharing of these articles constitutes good service? If so, please share your views with me and others in the comments section below. Otherwise, feel free to express your opinions. I might be available for discussion on my website. You’re welcome to send me a message through the chatbot, email me, or call me using the contact details provided on my website’s contact page.

What Is the Importance of Serving?

For me, serving God, fellow humans, and all creatures while doing what I love is paramount. It signifies life, fulfillment, and living rightly through sharing. Being a teacher doesn’t mean I have all the knowledge; there’s always more to learn.

Finding fulfillment in my passions surpasses the desire for money, fame, or other worldly pursuits. It’s crucial for me to serve in my unique way, which ties into discovering one’s career and self. Understanding our actions is essential for meaningful service to God and humanity. As a writer, you possess a unique voice; no one can replicate your style, even on identical topics, highlighting the value of your contributions.

As an example, I wear many hats: freelance teacher, translator, interpreter, web designer, motivational speaker, and book publisher. My activities largely revolve around educating and sharing knowledge. Interpreting aims to foster better mutual understanding, while translating facilitates communication—both forms of teaching.

Web design and development serve as additional channels for exchanging ideas, linking back to education. Speaking about life and our capabilities is an extension of teaching, encompassing personal and professional growth. Thus, I am fundamentally a teacher. Similarly, you can uncover your identity and talents to serve others, embodying the essence of service: leading a fulfilling life on Earth.

My Final Words

We have covered all that is necessary regarding service to God and others in our world. We’ve explored the definition of service, the methods of serving, the reasons behind it, and its significance. Now, ask yourself if you are prepared to serve in your distinctive way—yourself, God, other people, and all of creation.

Have you found your true self? Have you found your vocation? Are you dedicating yourself daily to acts of service? These are crucial questions to consider at this moment, as you reach the conclusion of this article. If you find this article beneficial, please feel free to share it with those in your circle. Wishing you a joyous new month of April 2022. Peace be with you!

Religious and Interreligious Conflicts: What They Are and Why They Matter

Understanding Religious and Interreligious Conflicts Is Key to Resolving Them

21^st March 2022

“Religious and Interreligious Conflicts” is an article designed to educate us about the nature of these conflicts, their causes, and the methods of resolution. It also explores the reasons for resolving such conflicts and their significance. A persistent question is whether human conflicts can ever be completely resolved. Read on to learn more.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

What Is a Religious Conflict?

Conflict within or between religious organizations or groups is termed religious conflict. For instance, conflict within Christianity, or between Christians and other religious groups, is referred to as religious conflict.

Religious conflict includes intolerance of other religions and discrimination against members of other religions, religious war, intellectual conflict and conflict between church and state. Such conflict is harmful to the overall credibility of religion and may cause religious apathy or disintegration. It may arise in the attempt to religiously convert tribal society and may result in ethnic disintegration and loss of cultural heritage. Religious conflict can ensue from political conflict.
Religious conflict | World Problems & Global Issues | The Encyclopedia of World Problems (uia.org)

The initial Sudanese civil wars were predominantly rooted in racial and religious differences. The conflicts arose from tensions between Arabs and indigenous Africans, both racially and religiously. The existence of distinct entities such as ‘Arab’ and ‘African’ is a complex issue that this article will not address. However, we are exploring the nature of religious conflict, which can intersect with racial identities, supporting our earlier point. Additionally, inter-religious conflicts exist alongside the type of religious conflict currently under discussion.

What Is an Interreligious Conflict?

Conflicts between two or more different religions are referred to as interreligious conflicts. For instance, disputes between Muslims and Christians fall under this category because they involve two distinct faiths. However, conflicts within the same religion, such as between different sects of Islam or Christianity, are classified as religious conflicts rather than interreligious ones.

Similarly, conflicts between African Religion and Christianity or Islam are considered interreligious. I choose not to call African Religion ‘Traditional African Religions’ as many scholars do, because it implies a collection of separate religions rather than a single religion with various sects. Moreover, all religions have traditions; thus, they are all traditional in some sense.

Describing African Religion as ‘traditional’ can be misleading, as it may suggest it is outdated or irrelevant, which I do not believe. Not all aspects of African Religion are demonic, satanic, or evil. They could represent unique ways in which God has revealed Himself to Africans. This is my perspective.

God was present in Africa long before the arrival of Westerners. Africans have known and related to God in their own ways, making African Religion one of the earliest means for people to understand and connect with the divine as they perceive it.

What Causes Religious and Interreligious Conflicts?

Just as there are numerous causes for various types of conflicts, the same is true for religious and interreligious conflicts. These can stem from personal, familial, clan, tribal, national, or international issues, reflecting the complex nature of human societies comprised of individuals.

Our objective is to discern the root causes of conflicts within and between religions. In Christianity, issues of leadership and resources are prominent. Individuals seek to have their voices heard. When leaders recognize that someone wishes to express a perspective that deviates slightly from the orthodox view, conflicts may arise.

Similarly, when a church leader secedes from the main body to establish a new church, they become the principal leader of that congregation, gaining access to power and wealth. This dynamic of resources and power also contributes to conflicts among different religious groups in Africa and globally.

How Do We Resolve Religious and Interreligious Conflicts?

Numerous methods exist for resolving conflicts, regardless of their nature or type. These methods include prevention, as well as win-win and win-lose strategies.

Preventing conflict before it escalates is always preferable. However, this approach may not always be practical for various reasons. Nevertheless, there are always methods available to resolve conflicts. People have the ability to resolve conflicts just as readily as they can create them, employing a multitude of strategies.

The initial step in resolving any conflict is to identify its root causes. Understanding the cause is crucial as it guides individuals towards sustainable solutions. Uncovering the root causes facilitates dialogue between the conflicting parties, leading to the admission of wrongdoing, forgiveness, reconciliation, and healing.

This principle likely informed the South Sudan government’s decision to initiate a National Dialogue following its war. The conflict in South Sudan was both tribal and political. Initially political, it quickly devolved into tribal conflict within a short span of time. For more detailed insights, my book, “The Conflict Management Principles,” provides further information.

Why Do We Resolve Religious and Interreligious Conflicts?

Resolving religious and interreligious conflicts is crucial for achieving and sustaining peace in society. When conflicts arise between or within religions in a country, it signifies a broader national conflict.

Each conflict leads to property destruction and loss of life. It breeds violence, which in turn spawns numerous problems too extensive to list here. Therefore, resolving any religious conflicts, whether internal or external, is imperative.

Similarly, we must address conflicts between and within tribes in our country. While several methods have been previously discussed, another effective strategy is to engage people in activities. If everyone is as occupied as I am, there will be little room for initiating and perpetuating unproductive conflicts.

What Is the Importance of Conflict Resolution?

The resolution of conflicts within and outside religious organizations is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, conflict generates discord both internally and externally, which can spread throughout the country. Given the destructive nature of conflicts, it is imperative to seek resolution wherever possible. Doing so fosters peace and harmony not only within the religious organization but also across societies and nations.

I hold the view that religions are human interpretations of God’s identity, preferences, and abode, and fundamentally, they are unified. However, conflicts arise within and between religions due to the human element. For instance, reading both the Bible and the Quran reveals no inherent conflict; rather, the strife exists between Christians and Muslims, often taking on racial overtones.

My Final Words

It is commendable to aim for the prevention of all forms of conflict, yet such an aspiration often remains idealistic. Conflicts have existed throughout history, are present today, and will likely continue into the future. Nevertheless, this does not imply that we should not attempt to resolve them.

So, how can we address conflicts? The approach varies depending on the type of conflict in question. This article has focused on religious and interreligious conflicts and their resolution. In conclusion, it appears that neither prevention nor complete resolution of all conflicts is feasible as long as humanity endures on Earth, given that human nature itself is often cited as the source of many evils.

Political and Inter-Political Conflicts: What They Are and Why They Matter

Understanding Political and Inter-Political Conflicts Is Key to Resolving Them

14^th March 2022

The article “Political and Inter-Political Conflicts” aims to elucidate the nature of these human conflicts, their origins, resolution strategies, reasons for resolution, and their significance in our societies. It guides you through these topics with the intent of providing education that extends beyond the traditional classroom setting.

What Is a Political Conflict?

Political conflict can arise within a single political party or as a result of governmental or other political disagreements. Politics, being a broad term, encompasses various forms, including personal, interpersonal, familial, inter-familial, clan, inter-clan, tribal, and inter-tribal politics.

The term implies the use of astuteness to achieve personal gain or benefit. It involves persuading someone to act against their own will. If we accept this broad definition of politics, then it is omnipresent, manifesting in all the forms mentioned. In essence, politics is employed to secure an advantage or win over a partner for personal benefit.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

What Is an Inter-Political Conflict?

Inter-political conflict refers to disputes between different political parties or those involving government politics or other political arenas. There are various types and levels of politics that can contribute to such conflicts.

The conflict in Sudan was both political and inter-political, similar to the conflict in South Sudan. These conflicts were characterized by political, racial, ideological, and religious dimensions. The South Sudanese conflict also had tribal elements, making it both a political and inter-political issue simultaneously.

What Causes Political and Inter-Political Conflicts?

The world is rife with various causes of conflict, ranging from personal disputes to international disagreements. Personal conflicts, in particular, seem to be proliferating across all levels and types of discord. Conversely, other forms of conflict can also escalate into personal grievances, as all conflicts are interconnected in some manner.

Take, for instance, an individual who is at peace internally. Should they encounter a person prone to conflict, their tranquility is likely to be disrupted. This is why the Apostle Paul advised, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all,” acknowledging that constant peace may not always be attainable.

Often, the nature of a conflict is defined by its cause. For instance, a conflict arising primarily from political disagreements is deemed political. If the conflict has both political and tribal roots, as seen in South Sudan and Rwanda, it is classified as inter-political.

Some of the causes of political and inter-political conflicts are:

Natural resources (oil, gas, land, etc.)
Partner (male versus female conflict)
Ideological
Racial
Religious
Identity

How Do We Resolve Political and Inter-Political Conflicts?

Numerous conflict resolution methods have been attempted, yet most have not been successful to date. Even the United Nations Organization (UNO), commonly known as the UN, has not achieved its primary goal of world peace. The complexity of human nature is a significant factor in the UN’s challenges.

Understanding the cause and type of conflict is crucial for resolution. Whether it’s personal, interpersonal, or familial, identifying the root cause is the first step. For personal conflicts, engaging in personal and professional development through reading and courses is advisable.

For interpersonal conflicts, including those of a political nature, it’s beneficial to educate oneself about the causes and types of conflicts. However, knowledge alone may not always suffice in resolving conflicts.

Methods such as win-win and win-lose are common in conflict resolution, along with prevention and withdrawal strategies. Personally, I endeavor to avoid conflicts with myself, God, others, and the rest of creation. When avoidance is not possible, finding a resolution or confronting the conflict is necessary. Thus, there are various methods people employ to resolve conflicts, including those of a political and inter-political nature.

Why Do We Resolve Political and Inter-Political Conflicts?

Conflicts, in all their forms, are detrimental to human life, yet they persist. While we may wish for all conflicts to be resolved, this remains a mere aspiration. It is said that even in heaven, there was a conflict between God and Satan, along with their angels. Most people dislike conflicts because they bring additional problems. Conversely, some individuals may find conflicts advantageous. As many strive to prevent or resolve conflicts, there are those who profit from them.

This is exemplified by the historical actions of Britain, France, and other Western powers, who instigated conflicts among tribes and nations in Africa, only to pose as peacemakers while actually being the provocateurs. Our goal, however, is to resolve conflicts to sustain peace and harmony among all parties involved. I seek peace within myself, with God (psychologically), with fellow humans, and with other beings, including animals like cats and dogs.

Peace, unlike conflict, brings a multitude of benefits, including prosperity. No nation or household can thrive without peace. As Jesus stated, “No kingdom divided against itself will ever stand,” underscoring the imperative to resolve conflicts of every nature.

What Is the Importance of Conflict Resolution?

The reasons stated are compelling. Conflict is lethal and ruins lives, both human and animal. Due to the conflict in Sudan, our wildlife has fled to neighboring countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Congo, Central Africa, and Chad. Peace in our homeland would encourage their return.

This indicates that conflict is detrimental, and even animals recognize the perils of residing in war-torn nations like Sudan and South Sudan. Living in peace is crucial. However, if global powers like the United States of America profit from our conflicts in South Sudan, achieving peace and harmony at home becomes a daunting task.

Let me share a thought with you, the reader. There is no entity such as the ‘International Community.’ The UK and the US alone do not constitute the International Community as they do not represent the entire global population. Moreover, the concept of democracy is not singular, as there are various forms.

These factors complicate the pursuit of peace. When we gained independence, the US anticipated controlling our resources, which, at the time of writing, has not occurred. Subsequently, they instigated conflict and then offered aid under the guise of assisting the people of South Sudan oppressed by their government. Nevertheless, despite these challenges, it is incumbent upon us, the South Sudanese, to strive for peace independently. We do not require external forces, including the US, to impose peace or conflict upon us. We seek peace, starting with inner personal tranquility, progressing to interpersonal harmony.

My Final Words

We have covered much ground, yet as Napoleon Hill stated, “knowledge alone is only potential power.” It’s not just about learning; it’s about applying that knowledge, otherwise, it remains theoretical. Reflect on what you’ve absorbed from this article and consider how you will apply it. We must each confront these questions. Personally, I’ve chosen to live in harmony with myself, God, others, and all of creation. How will you address your own conflicts with these entities? May God’s blessings and protection be upon you during and beyond the pandemic. That is my hope and prayer for you. Peace!

Further Readings

Political Violence – Wikipedia.
Political Conflicts: An Overview – Science Direct.
Political causes of civil war – Britannica.

Posted on March 7, 2022July 5, 2024 by John Monyjok Maluth — Leave a comment

Personal and Interpersonal Conflicts: What They Are and Why They Matter

Understanding Personal and Interpersonal Conflicts Is Key to Resolving Them

7^th March 2022

The article “Personal and Interpersonal Conflicts” aims to elucidate the nature of these conflicts, their origins, reasons for their occurrence, the necessity of resolving them, and the significance of addressing such conflicts at different levels. It examines both personal and interpersonal conflicts from various perspectives.

What Is a Personal Conflict?

Just as personal peace exists, so does personal conflict. This type of conflict occurs within an individual, a battle between oneself. It’s not a conflict between you and another, but within you alone. Although I wish for us to avoid conflict, it remains an inevitable part of life. You may struggle to embrace some of the concepts presented here, potentially leading to disagreement and conflict.

Nonetheless, it’s presumed you now comprehend the nature of personal conflict. You may have been aware of this before reading this text, and that is acknowledged. However, personal conflict is as intricate as any conflict at any societal level. It is the foundation of personal peace and reconciliation. Without conflict, there would be no need for resolution.

Further in this post, we will explore the various causes of personal conflict. But for now, our focus is to understand what this level of conflict means in our society. It’s common knowledge that society consists of individuals who form families, clans, tribes, and broader societies.

Therefore, it’s crucial to thoroughly examine personal conflict to grasp its significance, as it can escalate to higher levels of conflict if not addressed. Also known as intrapersonal conflict, this is what I refer to as personal inner conflict, which stands in contrast to interpersonal conflict, which will be discussed subsequently.

What Is an Interpersonal Conflict?

Just as there is interpersonal peace, there is also interpersonal conflict. This type of conflict occurs between two individuals, whether it’s between you and me, you and God, or you and other beings, and is known as external conflict. It represents a broader level of conflict throughout human and animal history.

Indeed, animals experience conflicts among themselves, just as humans do. When we encounter conflicts with God, other people, or other creatures, it is referred to as interpersonal conflict. This can occur within a family, between families, clans, and tribes, or even escalate to national or international levels.

Therefore, any conflict that exists outside of oneself is considered interpersonal or external, distinguishing it from internal or personal conflict. As mentioned earlier, such conflicts are prevalent in every human community or society and have various causes and potential solutions.

What Causes Personal and Interpersonal Conflicts?

Numerous factors contribute to human conflict, but one element often overlooked is our inherent nature. It’s our humanity that frequently leads to discord among us. Human nature plays a significant role in instigating conflicts, suggesting that some individuals may favor conflict over peace and harmony.

Indeed, in every generation and nation, there are those akin to the biblical Cain, who derive pleasure from conflict for their own reasons. They find joy in causing harm, whether to an individual or a group, and unlike most who hurt others unintentionally, these individuals do so with intent.

Commonly recognized causes of interpersonal or external conflict include personal greed and desires, leading to the misconception that resource competition is the primary source of societal conflicts. This notion arises from our propensity to contest ownership of anything, including relationships.

Consider that young men might fight to the death over a romantic partner, a phenomenon not exclusive to humans but observed in the animal kingdom as well. This type of rivalry is indeed a cause of interpersonal conflict and likely will continue to be so.

While some may argue that cultural differences, varied experiences, and knowledge are the main instigators of interpersonal conflict, it is, in fact, our human nature that lies at the heart of discord at any societal level. The tendency to belittle or disdain others stems from this nature. Some may deny this reality by claiming that born-again Christians have transcended their human nature, but is this assertion valid?

How Do We Resolve Personal and Interpersonal Conflicts?

Humans have various methods for resolving conflicts. As many individuals can instigate conflicts, there are equally as many who can reduce them to nothing. These individuals in our societies are the catalysts for peace and conflict resolution, known as peacemakers, and are revered for their role in fostering harmony.

Well before the advent of Christianity and Islam in Africa, indigenous methods were in place to address conflicts. These methods ranged from supernatural interventions to the exertion of force by elders or community leaders, including kings and chiefs. African societies were organized into chiefdoms and kingdoms long before foreign powers arrived.

In those times, if two individuals were inclined to fight, they were permitted to do so with less dangerous implements. This approach allowed conflicts to be resolved through combat rather than suppression, leading to a deeper understanding between the adversaries post-conflict.

Combatants might use sticks or their bare hands, with onlookers present to prevent any serious harm. Supernaturally, serious conflicts were addressed by cursing the instigators, a feared practice due to the believed severe and lasting repercussions. The fear of demons and evil spirits was more prevalent before the spread of Christianity and Islam than it is today.

Why Do We Resolve Personal and Interpersonal Conflicts?

Peace and harmony stand as the primary reasons for resolving conflicts at any level within human society, signifying that we have one or multiple compelling reasons to end disputes. However, we have yet to achieve success in ending conflicts globally, with even the United Nations continuing to grapple with wars on Earth.

I hold the view that peace should be prioritized in conflict resolution efforts because it is the fundamental goal of such endeavors. If peace is paramount to us all, which it undoubtedly is or ought to be, then resolving conflicts is equally critical.

My affinity for peace is why I’ve adopted the name Shalom, symbolizing peace coupled with prosperity, for true peace invariably leads to prosperity, just as conflict inversely results in decline. Here, prosperity implies the ability to yield results in our endeavors.

In the absence of peace, our efforts are jeopardized, highlighting that conflict bears severe real-life repercussions, including the loss of lives and property. The devastation wrought upon some of our larger cities during the brief conflict in South Sudan serves as a testament, where we saw years of development obliterated in mere months, illustrating the severe and perilous nature of war.

Owing to the costly and destructive nature of conflict, there is an ever-present need to seek resolutions. This underscores the significance of conflict resolution, which we will explore further. Indeed, there are numerous reasons to pursue both personal and interpersonal solutions to conflicts.

What Is the Importance of Conflict Resolution?

Indeed, if peace is crucial at any level of human society, so is conflict resolution. This is why I always concentrate on the individual level for resolving conflicts. You can only control your own thoughts and actions, not those of others. By managing your thoughts, words, and actions, you can achieve peace.

You can find peace within yourself, with God, with other humans, and even with other creatures. Peace is my emblem; it’s part of my nature, and both humans and animals recognize it. However, those who favor violence may see this as cowardice. I strive to avoid such individuals and animals, which sometimes may lead to conflict rather than peace.

Sharing these personal traits, I aim to highlight the significance of personal peace and harmony. Maintaining peace at any level is costly, but personal peace is crucial. It’s vital to find and sustain interpersonal peace, starting from within. Discovering our inner peace can inspire us to assist others in finding and maintaining their peace.

Do you see now the importance of having your own personal peace? It’s essential because it leads to family peace, which is interpersonal peace. I believe this is one of the primary reasons to pursue peace and harmony at the family level. Hence, conflict resolution is vital for both personal and interpersonal conflicts.

My Final Words

Thank you for reading this article to the end. I trust you’ve absorbed every word. It’s gratifying when my work is read thoroughly. However, before you depart, I’d like to leave you with some parting wisdom and advice. In all our discussions, the necessity for balance stands out. If you cherish peace, remember not everyone shares your disposition.

Some individuals may harbor a nature akin to Cain, capable of inflicting harm if you don’t conform to their ways. They may desire you to embrace violence and inflict pain on others to gain their favor. But that’s not who you are, is it? Stand firm against the tide of violence and suffering. Cultivate and preserve your personal peace; that is within your power.

Moreover, you play a vital role in fostering peace at every societal level, be it within your family, clan, or tribe. Begin by securing and sustaining your own inner peace. This tranquility is what you’ll extend to those around you, and ultimately, to the world at large.

I hope you’ve found value in this article. Feel free to share your reflections in the comments section below; your feedback is highly valued and will inform my future work. I also extend my best wishes to you and your loved ones, now and in the post-pandemic world.

National and International Conflicts: What They Are and Why They Matter

Understanding National and International Conflicts Is Key to Resolving Them

National and international conflicts represent various kinds and levels of discord, manifesting in different forms and types. Although they may appear distinct, they often share similar root causes. National conflict occurs within a single nation or country, whereas international conflict involves two or more countries, which may be neighboring or distant.

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What Is a National Conflict?

Conflicts at the national level can transcend tribal lines, as seen in South Sudan since 2013 and Rwanda in 1994. While inter-tribal conflicts may escalate to national or even international levels, a national conflict, also known as an intra-national conflict, occurs within a country.

A nation at war with itself, a scenario common in many countries, is experiencing a national conflict. Such conflicts may arise from political disputes, competition over resources, religious differences, or ideological divisions among the populace. Regardless of the cause or extent, if the conflict operates at the national level, it becomes a national issue.

Moreover, national conflicts have the potential to affect neighboring countries, influenced by various real-world factors. For instance, if a government faces an insurmountable rebellion, it might call upon its allies for support. This occurred in 1941 when the US aided South Korea against North Korea, leading to China’s involvement to support the North Korean regime, pushing back UN forces.

What Is an International Conflict?

An international conflict differs from a national one, although it may sometimes stem from a national dispute. Such a conflict occurs between two sovereign states or nations. I have previously provided an example of an international conflict.

As we will explore, conflicts have various causes. Occasionally, international conflicts may even involve tribes and ethnic groups from neighboring countries. I recall an incident where a Kenyan police officer demanded 10,000 Kenyan shillings from me due to tensions at the Kenya-South Sudan border.

It’s a lengthy tale worthy of its own article. I doubted his legitimacy as a police officer and questioned whether a bribe would grant me entry against the country’s laws. He offered no reply. Expressing concern over his and his colleagues’ conduct, I warned that such actions could escalate into serious issues between the neighboring nations. He dismissed me, claiming I knew too much.

This incident illustrates how minor issues can escalate into significant international disputes. I ponder whether Kenyan citizens face similar treatment in South Sudan and other East African nations, or if it’s an isolated occurrence. The officer accused us of being inherently violent. In response, I reminded him of the 2007 unrest in Kenya, questioning whether the combatants were South Sudanese mercenaries or Kenyans. I cautioned him that war might seem distant in discussion, but its reality is dreadful.

What Causes Both National and International Conflicts?

Numerous well-known factors contribute to national and international conflicts. Although conflicts involve many individuals, each person is a part of the larger societal structure. A country comprises individuals, families, clans, and tribes, all of which can play roles in either conflict or peace. Common causes of conflicts at both levels include competition for resources and political power. Ideologies can also lead to wars and conflicts between nations. However, fundamentally, human nature is often at the root of conflicts, whether personal, familial, clan-based, tribal, national, or international.

This stems from the fact that human desires permeate every level of society, particularly within government or positions of political power. For instance, in South Sudan, disputes over grazing lands and water have led to conflicts between tribes, both within and beyond national borders. The border issues between Kenya and South Sudan are primarily tribal, not political. These tribes have coexisted for many years, alternating between conflict and peace. While these disputes are not inherently international, they can escalate to that level if politicians choose to exploit them. Personal interests continue to be a source of discord at all societal levels, as evidenced by the relationship between the USA and South Sudan.

During South Sudan’s initial conflict with the North, now Sudan, the USA provided substantial support. However, following South Sudan’s independence in July 2011, the dynamics changed. The US had expectations of benefiting from South Sudan’s resources, which did not materialize, leading to a shift in the US’s stance and subsequent regret for its initial support. This shift is reflected in the devaluation of the South Sudanese Pound since 2014, indicating that currency strength is largely, if not entirely, influenced by political factors.

How Do We Resolve Both National and International Conflicts?

Numerous approaches exist for resolving conflicts at any scale. I have authored a comprehensive book on this subject, available on Amazon. Despite the variety of conflict resolution strategies, many repeatedly fail, as evidenced by the United Nations’ peacekeeping efforts. Identifying the underlying causes of conflict is a prerequisite for resolution, akin to a doctor diagnosing an illness before prescribing treatment. Similarly, understanding the origins of a conflict is essential before proposing solutions to halt or prevent future occurrences.

Secondly, negotiating a lasting solution to conflict at any level is crucial. This involves finding ways to end or prevent conflict altogether. It requires both parties to acknowledge their wrongdoings to each other before any true reconciliation can occur. This process is applicable at all levels of conflict, whether at home, within clans, tribes, or nations, and even between countries.

Thirdly, achieving a level of compromise or reconciliation is necessary. Once it is acknowledged that both sides have committed wrongs or caused harm during the conflict, a compromise must be reached. This compromise should stem from a mutual desire to resolve the conflict, necessitating forgiveness and acceptance from both parties.

Fourthly, there must be a development of passion and love between former enemies. While this may result from peace and reconciliation, it is also an integral part of conflict resolution. Such mutual affection can help prevent the re-escalation of conflict. Finally, unity between former adversaries, now friends and collaborators, is essential. This unity is not just an outcome of peace but a means to maintain harmony in the future. The question remains, how do we achieve these five levels of conflict management?

These goals can be pursued either forcefully, which often fails, or voluntarily, which can yield remarkable results if the conflicting parties are willing. Forcing peace or war is ineffective if the parties involved are not convinced of its necessity. Hence, peace is never imposed by force; it must be founded on valid reasons, of which there are many. Let us explore some of these reasons.

Why Do We Resolve Both National and International Conflicts?

Indeed, there are compelling reasons for reconciliation and the pursuit of peace and harmony, which can occur at any societal level. This includes families, clans, tribes, nations, and even internationally. Despite our fondness for discussing peace, it seems conflict often prevails over peace and harmony.

In every society, there are individuals akin to both Cain and Abel, and this dichotomy is not exclusive to humans; it extends to the animal kingdom, where both peaceful and aggressive behaviors are observed within families, clans, tribes, and nations. Conflicts are even present among insects.

On a personal note, I advocate for the resolution of conflicts at all levels, as they are costly and detrimental. Conflict is an integral part of life, so pervasive that it is thought to exist even in heaven, highlighting the gravity of the issue. It suggests that complete eradication of conflict may be unattainable.

Nevertheless, I hope for effective methods to manage conflicts, even if they cannot be entirely prevented. The imperative to resolve conflicts stems from their destructive nature, which is undesirable in any society. My perspective on the severity of conflict is shaped by personal experience, having been born and raised in the war-torn country of Sudan, which plunged into civil war shortly after South Sudan gained independence.

What Is the Importance of Conflict Resolution?

If peace is crucial, then so is conflict resolution. As previously stated, peace is beneficial, yet many of us favor conflict over peace, which is the root of discord. Imagine if the majority of people on Earth cherished and strived for peace; conflicts would be less frequent.

However, the reality is often the opposite. People tend to favor war and conflict over peace and harmony, a sad truth throughout human history. History’s tendency to repeat itself is proof of our affinity for war. Despite the prevalence of conflict, a minority remains dedicated to peace and prosperity, and I count myself among these advocates of peace.

The significance of conflict resolution lies in peace itself. Resolving conflicts at any societal level fosters peace, whether it be personal, familial, tribal, national, or international. Peace is paramount, regardless of the level or the reasons behind it.

Understanding the importance of resolving conflicts within oneself, and with others, including God and fellow humans, is crucial. Peace is also necessary between humans and the other creatures that share our environment. Conflicts arise not only among humans but also between us and other species.

Consequently, animals and birds can sense when we are at peace or in conflict with them. They may choose to defend themselves or flee depending on their perception of our intentions. I believe wild animals are not inherently wild but are perceived as such because humans can act more wildly than the wildest creatures on Earth. If we are capable of harming each other, what then of the creatures we consider insignificant?

My Final Words

As we reach the conclusion of this article, I extend my congratulations to you, particularly if you’ve journeyed from the start to this point. Before you depart, here’s my two cents. Peace is crucial, yet not everyone cherishes and strives for it. Nevertheless, this doesn’t exempt us from doing our part.

A balance is necessary. For instance, if you’re a proponent of peace, it’s natural to feel frustrated with those who aren’t cooperative. It’s important to stay true to ourselves. Conversely, if you’re indifferent to peace—as many are—embrace that truth as well. Honesty with oneself is often the first step to self-improvement.

I trust this article has been beneficial to you on a personal level. Feel free to share your reflections in the comments section below; I’m eager to read them. Moreover, I pray for the safety and well-being of you and your loved ones during and beyond the global pandemic.