War, or peace and development: South Africa's message for global peace and security∗

Based on a presentation to IPPNW XII World Congress, Worcester, MA, 25 July 1996.

Abstract

A shift in mind‐set is required to appreciate the extent of change demanded at a global level to begin to reverse ideological and exploitative processes that by continuing to polarize the world into a small and shrinking rich core and a large and growing poor periphery threaten the lives of all in an interdependent world. Proposals for reversing such adverse processes include (i) acquiring a deeper understanding of the ‘Third World’ or ‘periphery’ as a problem in which all nations are deeply implicated, (ii) fostering greater support for peace movements, and (iii) propagating new ways of thinking about progress. The dramatic political transition in South Africa illustrates how war can be avoided through peaceful negotiations. Successful ongoing social transformation in South Africa will depend, at least in part, on other countries emulating South Africa's example in different, but analogous, contexts.

Key Words:

• Exploitation
• Debt
• Militarization
• Peaceful development
• Global security
• South Africa

Notes

Based on a presentation to IPPNW XII World Congress, Worcester, MA, 25 July 1996.