Poverty, peace and sustainability
Viewpoint
EVER since the dawn of human civilisation the quest of human beings has been for stability and peace - not only for biological survival - but also to create opportunities for socio-economic progress. Without stability and peace no country can alleviate, let along eradicate poverty and establish conditions for an improved standard of living. In this viewpoint, I wish to focus some thoughts and throw out some suggestions on how each of us could contribute - both individually and collectively - to create a conducive environment in the pursuit and sustenance of peaceful co-existence. This challenge is for all countries - both developed and developing - moreso, in our multi-ethnic and multi-cultural Guyana. In a world that remains divided by diverse interests, conflicting ideologies and political philosophies, international agencies such as the United Nations as well as religious and social groupings are still striving to articulate an acceptable "Inclusive Vision" for mankind. This vision encompasses a conceptual framework of a community among nations, our common humanity and the stark reality that we are inhabitants of the earth with all its challenges and opportunities. The vision of a common humanity is unfortunately blurred with inter-state, communal and inter-personal conflicts, some well founded, but many misguided for personal and selfish motives. The Cold War is long over, but peace still remains elusive. Globalisation is enveloping us all around and the poor are becoming more marginalised. The rivalry for power and authority, sectarian interests and the jockeying for more space have created bigger disparities among nations of the world as well as within nations. The outcome has resulted in "fractured societies" with strained relationships, and Guyana, in this regard, is not an exception. The obvious question is, what can be done to alleviate our miseries? In spite of the efforts of international organisations and their many resolutions; the continuing dedication of religious and social groups, strife and conflict abound in many parts of the world. While it is generally agreed that socio-economic progress is dependent on enhancing the level of productivity through "knowledge-based techniques" and so make more efficient and effective use of available resources, there is a general tendency to overlook the fundamental requirement of stability and peace as pre-conditions to development. In my view, the vision of an "Inclusive Society" can only be realised through a system of common values underpinned by truth, honesty, non-violence, humility and mutual respect. Regardless of religious, ethnic, class or other considerations, human beings have a moral duty to demonstrate their commitment and support to such a system of values, if we are to live in peace. History is replete with examples of the destruction of human society through creed, selfishness, corruption and allied sins. In addition to commitment to a system of values, all of us - individually and collectively - through our respective social, religious and professional organisations, can make a contribution to the creation and maintenance of improved social relations in Guyana. No outside expert or guru can do this for us. In upholding and promoting a system of universal values, each of us should resolve and seek guidance - divine or otherwise - to use our body, mind and intelligence (the so-called BMI formula) to measure our daily actions by the rule of rectitude; to regulate our conduct by the undiluted principles of morality; and take an affirmative decision to guide our conversations and discussions within the compass of propriety. In this way we will emulate the values of tolerance, humility, non-violence and mutual respect which are the foundation pillars for an honest, just and equitable future for ourselves and posterity. I am of the considered view that we can change the social, political, ethnic and economic configurations of Guyana, if each of us decides from this day, to incorporate these values in our daily life, thus contributing to the collective peace and prosperity of our beloved country. Without doubt, there is a strong case to create `Gardens of Peace' around the world to promote and uphold the practice of a `Universal System of Values'. Peace! (Dr Boodhoo is currently a Management Consultant. He is a former UN Adviser and Pro-Chancellor of the University of Guyana).
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