Author: John Monyjok Maluth

Understanding International Peace Will Help You Become a Better Diplomat for Your Country

7^th June 2021

The “International Peace” is an article designed to inform readers about the significance of peace among nations, the methods to achieve and sustain it, and its importance for diplomatic relations, regardless of geographical proximity. This article stands out as it approaches the subject in a distinctive manner. Now, let’s delve into the details below.

WHAT IS AN INTERNATIONAL PEACE?

International peace refers to the tranquility existing between two or more nations, which may or may not share borders. Such peace often stems from maintaining positive internal and international relations.

Peace and harmony among nations, regardless of proximity, is termed international peace. Conversely, disputes between two or more nations are known as international conflicts.

Throughout human history, peace and conflict have coexisted, seemingly intertwined. Conflict often precipitates the pursuit of peace, suggesting that good is recognized in contrast to evil. Despite this, peace remains a vital pursuit. Let’s explore how individuals seek and sustain international peace.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

HOW TO FIND AN INTERNATIONAL PEACE?

Personal, family, clan, tribal, and national interests often take precedence in matters of peace, whether locally or internationally. As numerous factors can incite war and conflict, there are equally diverse methods to foster peace and harmony between nations. Given human nature’s inherent self-interest, personal gain typically outweighs the pursuit of peace. The primary question is, what are the interests at stake? Why should we seek peace with neighboring countries if there is no benefit to be gained?

Indeed, peace is advantageous on its own, but most individuals, particularly leaders, tend to prioritize their personal benefits. This is a common human behavior. I would likely do the same if I were in such a position. If peace with a neighboring country allows for the utilization of their resources for my nation’s development, then that serves as a strong incentive for peace. If mutual benefits can be derived from peace, then it is worth pursuing. However, if the benefits are one-sided, it is not uncommon for neighboring countries to maintain strained relations.

For peace to prevail between nations, it is essential to have peace-loving individuals at the borders. The nature of the people residing at these borders can either foster peace or incite conflict. If the border communities are violent and aggressive, it will be challenging for a country to maintain peaceful relations with its neighbors. Similarly, if the border inhabitants on the opposing side are also hostile, achieving peace becomes a difficult, if not impossible, task. Therefore, it is crucial to have peaceful communities along all borders, both within a country and in neighboring states, to ensure a harmonious existence. Additionally, there must be law and order in every bordering nation to address violations in a fair and just manner.

HOW TO MAINTAIN AN INTERNATIONAL PEACE?

Just as having peaceful citizens and effective laws is crucial within a country, the same applies to maintaining peace between nations. Firstly, there must be peace-loving individuals, particularly at the borders, and secondly, justice and law enforcement must be proactive. This is why I reminisce about the past in Africa when law and order prevailed.

In those times, peace was upheld due to respect for the law and the spiritual realm. However, Africa has changed; it will never be as it once was. The imported systems of religion and law no longer command fear. Law and order are absent because, although Africans retain their intrinsic nature, their world has transformed.

Does this imply that modern methods to sustain international peace are nonexistent? Not at all. There are methods, some of which I’ve already outlined. The key strategies for preserving peace between nations involve fostering peaceful communities and upholding the law. Those inclined towards violence should be held accountable by the law.

However, this approach does not always succeed. One reason is that individuals, being human, can be tempted to manipulate the law for personal gain. This often occurs because there is a lack of fear or respect for the foreign legal systems now implemented in Africa, regardless of our acceptance.

Monarchy, rather than democracy, is argued to be the superior system for governing Africa, as history seems to support. This is attributed to a shared identity among Africans; despite each person’s uniqueness, there is a commonality that binds them and defines their African identity.

Diving briefly into the realm of politics, it’s important to note that the concept of democracy is not even fully realized in the USA. The term ‘democracy’ is political in nature. The Nuer people have an insightful perspective on politics and governance, referring to it as “Politdekac,” which translates to the ‘politeness of lies.’

WHAT’S THE IMPORTANCE OF AN INTERNATIONAL PEACE?

Peace between nations is crucial for a multitude of reasons. You might wonder about the significance of international peace, a question I often encounter from my readers. To satisfy this curiosity, I’ve decided to pen this article and address the inquiry.

So, what makes peace between two or more countries so vital? One reason is the mutual benefits in trade, resources, and even cultural exchanges like intermarriages, fostering unity as though the nations were one. This exemplifies the value of peace. Additionally, peaceful nations may form alliances to confront common threats or adversaries.

Even distant countries can maintain amicable relations, with peace serving as the bond regardless of proximity. Beyond commerce, such nations can enjoy shared benefits like educational exchanges. For instance, peace between Rwanda and South Sudan could enable students to pursue studies in Rwanda. Similarly, peaceful relations with Egypt, England, the USA, and other nations can open doors for South Sudanese to study abroad.

MY FINAL WORDS

Here are my final thoughts and advice for you: the necessity of balance. You’ve read my perspectives on what it means to have peace among nations, how to achieve and sustain that peace, and most importantly, why peace is essential. Peace is beneficial, yet it’s often undervalued by us humans. As a result, conflict arises unexpectedly, even within our families.

Conflict is also a reality in our personal lives. It appears that conflict and peace coexist in a mysterious symbiosis. This suggests that humans cannot completely eradicate either. Without conflict, peace would not be recognized. Therefore, balance is essential, and that is my point.

Peace will come when it comes, as will conflict. We need not overburden ourselves in any circumstance. Nevertheless, we should strive to seek and uphold peace at our own level. But we shouldn’t exhaust ourselves if success seems distant. Personal peace is paramount. Be peaceful, but only if it’s true to who you are.

Some individuals are inherently violent and take pleasure in it. They find joy in the suffering of others and in inflicting pain and harm. However, that may not describe you. Be authentic. Be true to yourself. I hope the concept of International Peace has been meaningful to you. Would you care to share your thoughts on it in the comments section below?

Your input is greatly valued, and I look forward to your help and support. Your opinions are important to me, as I wish to understand your perspective. I pray for God’s blessings upon you and your loved ones, for safety during and beyond the global pandemic. Shalom!

FURTHER READINGS

• Maintain International Peace and Security—United Nations.
• How Successful Has the UN Been in Maintaining International Peace and Security?—e-International Relations.

Mastering These Inter-Tribal Peace Lessons Will Pay Dividends

24^th May 2021

The “Inter-Tribal Peace” is an article designed to guide you through understanding its essence, the methods to achieve and sustain it, and the significance of maintaining peace among tribes. In Africa, a tribe represents a fundamental component of society. Multiple tribes constitute a country or a nation. With this in mind, the article delves into these topics.

WHAT IS INTER-TRIBAL PEACE?

Inter-Tribal Peace refers to the tranquility established between two or more tribes. It can be termed national peace when it encompasses all tribes within a nation. Such tribal peace and harmony can foster broader peace across regions, states, counties, or entire countries, often due to historical or political reasons unique to each country’s administrative divisions.

This peaceful coexistence is centered on calmness and harmony, potentially yielding numerous benefits for nations and communities alike. It may arise from peace at personal, family, clan, and tribal levels, progressing through interpersonal, inter-family, inter-clan, to inter-tribal peace. These forms and layers of peace within a society are often known by various names.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

HOW DO WE FIND AN INTER-TRIBAL PEACE?

Understanding the significance of peace among tribes, we ponder how to initiate or establish such harmony. Does peace among tribes emerge naturally? What steps are necessary to foster and sustain peace at the tribal level? These questions are crucial for grasping the process of peacebuilding in society.

Reflecting on African history provides insight into our progress in the pursuit of peace and harmony. Historically, numerous methods existed to cultivate peace among tribes within kingdoms, long before Arab and English influences. These methods were well-suited to African communities and societies.

Comparing historical practices with contemporary methods of peacekeeping between tribes and nations reveals differences. In my previous articles, I noted that traditional African practices were intertwined with religion and spirituality, implying that leadership was considered as sacred as the gods. Consequently, people adhered to state laws out of reverence for the spiritual realm, believed to coexist with the physical world.

Such beliefs enabled peaceful coexistence among tribes within a society. However, when foreign ideologies deemed these values malevolent, they were discarded, complicating adherence to any laws and elevating personal freedom over societal structure.

HOW DO WE MAINTAIN AN INTER-TRIBAL PEACE?

Maintaining peace between two tribes, once achieved, can be approached in various unique ways tailored to the specific situation and needs. Just as individuals can foster peace or conflict between tribes and nations, they also possess the means to preserve peace within their communities.

What, then, are some common strategies for sustaining peace among tribes in a country like South Sudan? Initiatives such as job creation for the youth can be particularly effective, especially if conflicts stem from their idleness. Engaging young people in constructive activities can divert their attention from tribal conflicts.

Peace is fundamentally a personal endeavor. Every member of society has a crucial role in cultivating peace and harmony. Leadership, whether traditional or contemporary, plays a significant role in upholding peace among tribes or groups. However, this does not diminish the responsibilities of individuals, families, clans, and tribes. Authorities must guide the nation towards peace.

A government has numerous responsibilities to ensure peace among its tribes. Ensuring security is paramount, as is the establishment and enforcement of laws that protect the rights of all citizens, not just the leaders.

The law and justice system should address those who wrong others or incite tribal conflicts. When laws are impartial and people are judged by their actions, peace is likely to endure, as individuals will not seek personal vengeance. Effective laws are necessary to maintain order. This respect for a well-implemented legal system is why I hold the old African systems in high regard.

WHAT’S THE IMPORTANCE OF AN INTER-TRIBAL PEACE?

Peace is crucial at all levels of society. Tribes form the foundation of regions, states, counties, payams, and even bomas, which have been the governmental divisions in South Sudan since 2005. The smallest administrative unit is the boma. However, each governance level is equally important. Thus, peace among two or more tribes leads to national tranquility.

Take, for instance, harmony between the Nuer and the Dinka tribes in the Upper Nile Region; it results in numerous developmental advantages for that area. Such progress can be individual or communal, contributing to national or regional growth.

Peaceful regions enable inhabitants to engage in trade, fostering economic stability. Individuals can cultivate land and rear cattle without fear for their safety or that of their livestock.

There are countless reasons why intertribal peace is vital. The few mentioned here merely scratch the surface. Peace among tribes often translates to national peace, which can extend to harmonious relations with neighboring nations.

MY FINAL WORDS

As we conclude this article on Inter-Tribal Peace, your key takeaways are prepared. You’ve explored the concept of Inter-Tribal Peace, strategies to foster and sustain it, and its significance within a nation. However, it’s common knowledge that not all humans desire peace by nature.

So, if some are inclined towards creating chaos and conflict, what should our approach to peace be? Our path forward is to coexist peacefully with others to the best of our ability. This reminds us that while we cannot compel others to adopt our ways, we should not conform to theirs if it contradicts our values. Here, it’s crucial to assert personal freedom confidently and decisively.

The essence of this article is to encourage living in peace with everyone as far as possible. It’s my duty to remain peaceful with myself, even against the world’s tide, and it’s your responsibility to seek peace with others, regardless of their stance.

I hope you found value in the insights on Inter-Tribal Peace. I invite you to share your reflections in the comments section. Your feedback is greatly valued and will aid in enhancing my efforts towards advocating peace and harmony, both within and with others. May God bless and protect you and your loved ones during the global pandemic and beyond. Peace be with you!

FURTHER READINGS

• University Students Debate the Causes of Inter-Tribal Conflicts in Darfur—UNAMID
• Building Inter-Tribal Peace through Children—OpenIdeo

Learning About Inter-Clan Peace Will Help You Value Peace in This Societal Level

17^th May 2021

The article “Inter-Clan Peace” is designed to educate on the significance of peace between clans and the methods to achieve and sustain it for societal progress. It is not a directive or a collection of enigmatic rules to follow. Rather, it serves as guidance. With this in mind, let us consider the key points that follow.

WHAT IS INTER-CLAN PEACE?

Inter-Clan Peace refers to the harmony established between two or more clans. These clans might be part of the same sub-tribe, share common ancestry, or belong to different tribes altogether. Often, these clans coexist in the same settlement area, particularly in urban settings of the modern world.

Inter-Clan Peace is sometimes termed tribal peace, as clans constitute a tribe or a sub-tribe in certain countries and regions. Therefore, peace between two clans can signify peace among multiple clans within a community or tribe. Tribal peace within a tribe can potentially lead to broader inter-tribal or even national peace.

Peace transcends the mere absence of violence, conflict, or warfare. It encompasses harmony, tranquility, and prosperity, akin to the comprehensive well-being denoted by ‘shalom’ in Hebrew. Peace within a clan fosters calmness and harmony, paving the way for further benefits like clan development.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

HOW TO FIND AN INTER-CLAN PEACE?

Peace, a positive and desirable state, can be elusive within a clan. While conflicts arise with ease, fostering peace is a more complex task. Our brains often overlook the commonplace, such as peace, focusing instead on the extraordinary. This may explain why discussing peace is simpler than actualizing it.

It’s not impossible to cultivate peace within a clan, although it’s certainly more challenging than sparking conflicts and disagreements. Proverbs 18:8 from the Bible suggests that gossip, a common element of our conversations, tends to fuel conflict rather than peace. Nevertheless, there are established methods to foster peace among clans.

Historically, in Africa, when two clans were in conflict, their battles did not engulf the entire tribe or sub-tribe. They engaged in combat that avoided fatal outcomes, using weapons like sticks. After a defeat, clans would reflect on the conflict, which often led to prolonged periods of peace and harmony.

As I have mentioned in other articles, Africa once had its unique forms of everything, including leadership. This leadership differed from the current nation-state or Western government models, as it resonated more with African ways of life. It was intertwined with the spiritual realm, commanding such fear and reverence that people would not dare to violate its laws and regulations as they might with today’s foreign systems.

This traditional African system was effective in maintaining peace and harmony, as individuals causing trouble would be disciplined by the spirits in a manner they would never forget. While these may be considered beliefs, they were effective because people in those times actively practiced them.

HERE IS HOW:

• Live in peace yourself in your clan.
• Encourage others near you to live in peace.
• Spread that peace to the other clans in many possible ways.

HOW TO MAINTAIN AN INTER-CLAN PEACE?

After establishing peace between two clans, the challenge lies in ensuring its permanence. This is a complex issue, as maintaining everlasting peace in any human society is difficult. Conflicts arise even on an individual level, let alone among clans or groups.

Every clan has its troublemakers, but similarly, there are peacemakers at every societal level. These peacemakers have the ability to forge and sustain peace between clans. According to Christian belief, these peacemakers are promised rewards in the heavenly kingdom by Jesus Christ, revered as the Lord of lords and King of kings.

To secure a place in the forthcoming world, one should strive to be a peacemaker rather than a troublemaker. Individual efforts towards peace contribute to communal harmony. Since societies consist of individuals, families, clans, and tribes, personal peace is a stepping stone to inter-clan peace and harmony.

It’s a common belief that employing all the youth in a country will eradicate street robberies. While this is a commendable idea, it doesn’t address the complexities of human nature and behavior. Even with employment, some individuals may still engage in self-destructive behaviors, such as excessive drinking, which can also harm those around them. The issue is not with wine itself, but with the individuals.

Troublemakers exist globally, and not everyone can be transformed by the Gospel. It requires a person’s willingness to embrace it for any significant, positive change to occur in their life. Otherwise, preaching the Gospel would be pointless if personal commitment wasn’t essential for transformation.

WHAT’S THE IMPORTANCE OF INTER-CLAN PEACE?

Peace is essential at every level of society and is a cornerstone for any form of social development. Without peace, progress in personal, career, or societal development is hindered. Peace is necessary for us to utilize our full potential, and this underscores its significance among clans and tribes.

Since the onset of the war in South Sudan on December 15, 2013, the nation’s growth has been stunted, demonstrating the importance of peace for individuals, families, clans, and tribes to foster positive advancements.

However, the reality of human existence often renders peace a mere aspiration. This is attributed to the fact that many prioritize their own prosperity over the peace and harmony of others.

MY FINAL WORDS

My parting wisdom and counsel is that each of us has a role, whether individually or collectively. Peace starts within the individual before it can spread globally. This is my conviction, my faith, and my doctrine. Personal peace is crucial to achieving peace within and between clans. It is the key to unlocking national and international boundaries.

I am aware that I control only myself, not you or anyone else. This means I cannot speak for you or others. Nor can you speak for me or others regarding living peacefully with everyone in our world. It implies that we are responsible solely for our own thoughts, words, and actions. Thus, we should regard peace as a personal attribute first and foremost.

I trust this Inter-Clan Peace article has been beneficial to you. If so, I invite you to share your thoughts in the comments section below. Your feedback on this article would be greatly valued. I pray for God’s blessings and protection over you and your loved ones during and beyond the pandemic. Shalom!

FURTHER READINGS

• Strengthening Cross-Clan Collaboration—Inter Peace.
• Inter-Clan Peace Initiative in Madera—University of Nairobi (Research work in a PDF file).

When You Explore These Inter-Family Peace Facts You Will Love Peace between Families

10^th May 2021

The article “Inter-Family Peace” is designed to guide you in understanding the concept of peace among families, the methods to achieve and sustain it, and its significance in enhancing the social fabric of a community. Let’s delve deeper into this topic.

WHAT IS INTER-FAMILY PEACE?

Inter-Family Peace refers to harmony between two or more families, whereas Family Peace, or intra-family peace, pertains to harmony within a single family. Currently, our focus is on peace among families, which entails the absence of violence or disputes between them.

Such peace can cascade to higher societal levels. Envision peace among all families within a clan; this would result in peace throughout the clan. Extending this further, if every clan were at peace, it would translate to tranquility within the sub-tribe or even the entire tribe.

However, humans often grapple with internal conflicts, leading to personal, interpersonal, and familial strife, which can escalate to discord between families. This brings us to a crucial inquiry: how can we cultivate peace among multiple families?

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

HOW DO WE FIND AN INTER-FAMILY PEACE?

In any society, the quest for peace among families is a noble endeavor. Just as peaceful individuals within a family can foster harmony, so too can they promote peace among multiple families. Conversely, just as there are aggressive individuals in every family, conflict can arise at any societal level, including within families.

In the past, our villages had numerous methods to cultivate peace among families. One such method was through traditional leadership; people held their elders in high esteem and adhered to their counsel. However, times have changed.

Another method was the fear of spiritual repercussions, such as curses and witchcraft, which compelled people to follow the elders’ guidance or risk the wrath of malevolent spirits that brought misfortune. With the advent of Islam and Christianity, these old beliefs have become history.

Does this mean modern methods of maintaining peace within and outside families are nonexistent? The answer is complex. While there are contemporary approaches to fostering peace among families, they often struggle to make a significant impact in communities because they are perceived as foreign.

HOW DO WE MAINTAIN AN INTER-FAMILY PEACE?

Maintaining peace between families is a crucial issue, and there are various legitimate methods that can be employed to achieve this. These methods span both modern and ancient practices.

The ancient approach was both spiritual and secular, with the latter being less distinct in those times in Africa. Life was perceived as inherently spiritual, which led to the widespread acceptance of Islam and Christianity, along with their beliefs, doctrines, teachings, and the continuation of traditional practices.

Finding peace within our families mirrors the process of maintaining it. Historically, leadership was instrumental in both establishing and preserving peace. It was customary for individuals from different families to resolve conflicts on their own, without interference, even if it resulted in defeat for one party. This practice helped to avert broader family feuds.

Today, we rely on religious scriptures and foreign education to sustain peace. However, these may not align with the traditional African context. The reverence once held for spiritual entities has waned, leading to moral lapses that can incite conflicts among individuals or families.

Excessive freedom can ultimately lead to a form of bondage. The question remains: should we revert to the old ways of life, and would such a return be universally accepted within our communities?

WHAT’S THE IMPORTANCE OF AN INTER-FAMILY PEACE?

There are numerous reasons why peace between two families is essential. Peace is beneficial because its absence leads to conflict, which results in the loss of lives and property. Conversely, peace fosters harmony and prosperity. An Arabic proverb states, “The fearful mother raises her children,” reflecting a positive outlook.

Fear of destruction and harm has often been an effective means to prevent and resolve family conflicts. Shared interests can sometimes bring about global peace. For instance, consider the possibility of trading oil with Americans; this could incentivize them to assist in maintaining peace within a country to access its resources.

Peace is inherently positive, while conflict is negative. However, both are inevitable aspects of human existence. We may not be able to completely avoid them, but we can strive to uphold peace and harmony as they represent core values in every society, achievable through countless methods.

MY FINAL WORDS

We have now reached the conclusion of this article on Inter-Family Peace, which also encompasses clan peace if families constitute a clan in your society. Families, whether related by blood or not, are still families and should coexist in peace, love, and harmony.

In closing, I offer you this wisdom: you possess the keys to your own peace. This personal peace may or may not extend to family and inter-family relations. Your responsibility is to be a beacon of peace and leave the outcome to unfold. If others choose violence, it does not compel you to mirror their actions. You are unique. Strive to live peacefully with everyone to the best of your ability.

I trust that this article on Inter-Family Peace has been beneficial to you. I invite you to share your reflections in the comments section below. Your feedback is invaluable for enhancing this post and future ones. May God bless you and ensure your safety during and beyond the pandemic. Peace be with you!

FURTHER READINGS

Intra-Family Conflict—IRDP post