Peace and liberation are two concepts that are often intertwined. Peace is often defined as the absence of conflict or violence, while liberation is the process of becoming free from oppression or control. While these two concepts may seem distinct, they are actually deeply interconnected. “Peace is not merely the absence of tension: it is the presence of justice.” – Martin Luther King, Jr. True peace cannot be achieved without liberation, and liberation cannot be achieved without peace.
Peace and liberation are two of the most fundamental goals of international law. The United Nations Charter, the foundational treaty of international law, states that one of its purposes is “to maintain international peace and security.” The Charter also prohibits the use of force in international relations, except in self-defense or when authorized by the UN Security Council.
Peace as a Prerequisite for Liberation
In order to achieve liberation, people must be able to live in an environment that is free from violence and oppression. When people are constantly living in fear of their lives or their freedom, it is difficult to focus on anything else. Liberation requires people to be able to think freely and to organize collectively, and these things are impossible in a climate of fear and violence.
“To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”
Nelson Mandela
Liberation as a Prerequisite for Peace
Liberation is also a prerequisite for peace. When people are oppressed and marginalized, they are often more likely to resort to violence in order to achieve their goals. This is why it is so important to address the root causes of conflict, such as poverty, inequality, and discrimination. When people feel that they are treated fairly and with respect, they are more likely to work for peace.
Peace and liberation are two essential goals for a just and equitable world. When people are free from oppression and violence, they can focus on building a better future for themselves and their communities. It is important to remember that peace and liberation are not simply ideals; they are achievable goals that we can all work towards.
References:
United Nations Charter
International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination
Additional reading:
John Dugard, International Law: A South African Perspective (2012)
James Crawford, The Brownlie Principle: A Textbook of International Law (2002)
Antonio Cassese, International Law (2011)