War today has proved to be a needless recourse full of suffering and waste if peace is the ultimate goal. Negotiation, diplomacy and communication almost always offer effective means to settle disputes between states. Even the strongest rivalries eventually make their way to the negotiation table, as history suggests.
The world needs to reconsider its priorities. Funding for healthcare and education as well as infrastructure development should not be compromised for the sake of war gains. Healthcare guarantees people’s productivity and well-being, while education empowers people, builds nations and creates opportunities. Infrastructure too is a basic need for people in today’s world. These are the obligations that every state must fulfil. For a sustainable and compassionate future, there is need to prioritise books over weapons and clinics over combat zones.
Imran Shoukat
Toba Tek Singh
