We see today's world is in the most chaotic and dangerous state in history. None of us are completely safe from the many threats. Although there have been numerous efforts to achieve peace, it is hard to deny that we are still living in the fear of losing our lives to terrorism and other violence. Across the world thousands of innocents lives are being lost to wars every day. We cannot ignore the fact that a high proportion of conflicts and wars are attributed to religious causes. But unfortunately, the high sensitivity of the issue has often prevented religious matters from being addressed in legal projects.
Recognising the imminent threats posed by conflicts and wars, prominent legal experts from various countries came together with a determination to produce a legal document that could serve as a foundation for a safe and peaceful world. Through their collaborative efforts, the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War was drafted and officially proclaimed on 14 March 2016 at 3:14 PM. The Declaration consists of 10 articles and 38 clauses listed below:
Article 1: Prohibition of the threat or use of force
Article 2: War potential
Article 3: Friendly relations and the prohibition of acts of aggression
Article 4: State boundaries
Article 5: Self-determination
Article 6: Dispute settlement
Article 7: Right to self-defence
Article 8: Freedom of religion
Article 9: Religion, ethnic identity and peace
Article 10: Spreading a culture of peace
The Declaration has a clear and definite purpose, that is, to cease all wars on earth. The Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War is unique in its inclusion of provisions designed to prevent religious conflict, often times excluded from legal instruments. However, a provision addressing religious issues proves to be crucial in achieving peace, as a large amount of wars stem from religious roots.
The world is at the crossroad between destruction and coexistence, and its destiny is in our own hands. We must remain active to protect what is right and just for humanity. Let us, as the people of Aotearoa, unite together to make this peaceful world a reality.
PLEDGE for PEACE
