Write Short Notes on the Following in About 600 Words Each
(a) Direct and Structural Violence
Introduction
Violence is often thought of as physical harm caused by war or crime. However, peace and conflict studies differentiate between direct violence and structural violence. Johan Galtung, a Norwegian peace scholar, introduced the concept of structural violence, highlighting that violence is not always visible but can be built into society’s systems.
Understanding these two types of violence helps in identifying and addressing the root causes of conflict to create lasting peace.
Direct Violence
1. Definition
- Direct violence refers to physical harm or immediate aggression caused by individuals, groups, or states.
- It is visible and includes war, murder, rape, torture, terrorism, and domestic violence.
2. Examples of Direct Violence
- War and armed conflicts – The Syrian Civil War has caused massive deaths and destruction.
- Terrorism – Attacks by ISIS and Boko Haram have killed thousands.
- Police brutality – Cases of police violence against civilians, such as in the U.S. or Nigeria’s End SARS protests.
3. Consequences of Direct Violence
- Leads to immediate suffering, death, and destruction.
- Causes psychological trauma and long-term instability.
Structural Violence
1. Definition
- Structural violence refers to systemic inequalities and injustices that prevent people from meeting their basic needs.
- Unlike direct violence, structural violence is built into social, economic, and political systems and is not caused by a single person.
2. Examples of Structural Violence
- Poverty – Millions in Africa and South Asia suffer due to lack of access to food, healthcare, and education.
- Gender discrimination – Women in many countries face economic, social, and legal inequalities.
- Racial and caste oppression – Apartheid in South Africa and caste discrimination in India are examples.
3. Consequences of Structural Violence
- Leads to long-term oppression and social inequality.
- Traps people in cycles of poverty and marginalization.
- Often causes rebellion or violent uprisings (e.g., Arab Spring protests).
Relationship Between Direct and Structural Violence
- Structural violence often leads to direct violence (e.g., poverty can lead to crime and civil unrest).
- Addressing structural issues like inequality can help reduce direct violence.
- Peacebuilding efforts must tackle both forms of violence for long-term stability.
(b) Environmental Approach to Peace
Introduction
Environmental factors play a significant role in conflicts and peacebuilding. Scarcity of natural resources, climate change, and environmental degradation often contribute to wars, migration, and humanitarian crises. The environmental approach to peace emphasizes protecting natural resources, reducing climate stress, and promoting sustainable development to prevent conflicts.
Key Aspects of the Environmental Approach to Peace
1. Resource Conflicts and War
- Many wars are fought over land, water, oil, minerals, and forests.
- Example: The Darfur conflict (Sudan) was partially caused by water scarcity and desertification.
2. Climate Change and Migration
- Climate change has led to droughts, floods, and food shortages, forcing people to migrate.
- Example: Rising sea levels are threatening small island nations, leading to displacement.
3. Sustainable Development for Peace
- Investing in renewable energy, water conservation, and sustainable agriculture can reduce tensions.
- Example: The UN promotes environmental peacebuilding through sustainable development goals (SDGs).
4. International Cooperation on Environmental Peace
- Many countries now cooperate to prevent climate-related conflicts.
- Example: The Paris Climate Agreement aims to reduce global carbon emissions to prevent climate-driven crises.
Conclusion
Both direct and structural violence harm individuals and societies, requiring different solutions. The environmental approach to peace highlights the connection between sustainability and conflict prevention. Addressing environmental challenges is essential for long-term global stability.
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