War is not a solution but peace is.

Peace is the real solution to a conflict because when war

ends, peace treaty is signed between warring factions and peace prevails.Effects of war
also include mass destruction of cities and have long lasting effects on a country’s
economy. Armed conflict has important indirect negative consequences on infrastructure,
public health provision, and social order.

These are the words of Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam “War is never a lasting solution to any
problem”. This statement is definitely true and the post effects of a war of any kind are
disastrous. Although there is another point of view to this, which says war brings freedom
and peace. But this is not agreeable in the light of the loss of mankind and worst economic
conditions which are caused due to wars.

• The United Nations (UN) was created at the end of World War II as an international
peacekeeping organization and a forum for resolving conflicts between nations.
• The UN replaced the ineffective League of Nations, which had failed to prevent the
outbreak of the Second World War.
• The UN was established on October 24, 1945, with headquarters in Manhattan, New
York City, and reflected the rise of the United States to global leadership in the
postwar period.

What is UN position and perspectives

The United Nations generally advocates for peace and diplomacy to resolve conflicts and
mitigate the impact of war on civilians. Its perspective is typically rooted in international
law, human rights, and humanitarian principles. UN efforts in a war often involve
diplomatic mediation, peacekeeping operations, humanitarian assistance, and supporting
political negotiations to end hostilities.

The UN's primary position In a war is to act as a mediator and facilitator for peace. It aims
to de-escalate conflicts, protect civilians, and promote a resolution based on international
law. Here’s a breakdown of their perspective and an example:

UN’s Perspective:

Maintaining Peace and Security: The UN Charter establishes the organization’s core
responsibility as maintaining international peace and security. This involves working to
prevent conflicts, resolving disputes peacefully, and taking action against threats to peace.

Humanitarian Aid and Protection: During wartime, the UN prioritizes providing

humanitarian assistance to civilians caught in the crossfire. This includes delivering food,
water, medical supplies, and shelter. Additionally, the UN advocates for the protection of
civilians under international humanitarian law.
Upholding International Law: The UN acts as a champion for international law and
diplomacy. It encourages warring parties to adhere to international treaties and
agreements, such as those concerning human rights and the treatment of prisoners of war.

Example: UN’s Role in the Ukraine War

The ongoing war in Ukraine serves as a recent example of the UN’s position in a conflict.
The UN:

Condemned the Russian Invasion: The UN General Assembly overwhelmingly voted to

condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, calling for a withdrawal of troops.

Demanded Humanitarian Access: the UN has repeatedly demanded unhindered access for
humanitarian aid to reach civilians affected by the fighting.

Acted as a Mediator: The UN Secretary-General has offered to mediate between Russia and
Ukraine to find a peaceful solution to the conflict.

However, it’s important to note that the UN’s ability to enforce its resolutions is limited. The
Security Council, the UN’s body tasked with maintaining peace and security, can be
hampered by vetoes from its permanent members, including Russia.

Despite these limitations, the UN remains a crucial player in international conflicts,

working towards peace and advocating for the well-being of civilians.

The situation in Ukraine remains deeply concerning, with ongoing violations of international
law and humanitarian crises. The UN continues its efforts to address the conflict and
provide assistance to those affected.

Arguments Against War in a Debate with Examples:

Here are some key points you can make in a debate against war, along with examples:

Humanitarian Cost:
• Loss of Life:
o Example: The Syrian Civil War has resulted in an estimated half a million
deaths [Source: BBC]. Millions more are injured or displaced.
• Displacement and Refugee Crisis:
o Example: The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has forced millions of Ukrainians
to flee their homes, creating a massive refugee crisis in Europe.
• Long-Term Health Effects:
 o Example: Agent Orange, a defoliant used by the US in the Vietnam War,
continues to cause birth defects and health problems in generations born
after the war.
Economic Cost:
• Financial Burden:
o Example: The US wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are estimated to have cost
trillions of dollars, diverting resources from domestic needs like education
and infrastructure.
• Destruction of Infrastructure:
o Example: The bombing of cities in Syria during the civil war has
devastated essential infrastructure, hindering reconstruction efforts.
• Disruption of Trade:
o Example: The war in Ukraine has disrupted global food supplies,
impacting countries that rely on Ukrainian wheat exports.
Limited Effectiveness:
• Failure to Achieve Objectives:
o Example: The US invasion of Iraq in 2003 was based on the false claim
that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction. The war destabilized
the region and did not achieve its stated goals.
• Rise of Extremism:
o Example: The power vacuum created by the US invasion of Iraq allowed
for the rise of ISIS, a brutal terrorist group.
• Risk of Escalation:
o Example: The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914
sparked a chain reaction of alliances that led to World War I, a global
conflict resulting in millions of deaths.
Alternatives to War:
• Diplomacy and Negotiation:
o Example: The Iran nuclear deal, reached through diplomacy, successfully
curbed Iran's nuclear program without resorting to military action.
• Sanctions and Economic Pressure:
o Example: Targeted sanctions against South Africa's apartheid regime
played a role in dismantling the system of racial segregation.
• International Law and Institutions:
o Example: The UN peacekeeping mission in Mali helps to stabilize the
region and protect civilians, offering an alternative to military intervention.
Gender preservation

The term "gender preservation" during war doesn't have a single, universally accepted
definition. However, we can explore how war impacts gender roles and identities, and
how efforts are made to protect people of all genders.

War's Impact on Gender:

• Gender-Based Violence: War unfortunately creates a heightened risk of
violence against women, girls, and LGBTQ+ individuals. This includes sexual
assault, forced marriage, and exploitation.
• Shifting Roles: Traditionally male-dominated roles like combat duty may open
up to women during wartime. Conversely, men might take on traditionally female
roles in displaced communities.
• Loss of Livelihood: War can disrupt economies, disproportionately affecting
women's access to work and resources, pushing them further into vulnerability.
Efforts for Gender Equality During War:
• UN Security Council Resolution 1325: This landmark resolution calls for the
inclusion of women in peace processes and decision-making, and specifically
emphasizes the protection of women and girls from violence.
• Humanitarian Aid: Organizations like the UN and NGOs strive to deliver aid that
takes gender needs into account, providing safe spaces for women and girls, and
ensuring access to reproductive healthcare.
• Protection of Civilians: International law protects civilians during war, including
from violence based on gender. Advocacy efforts highlight these violations and
hold perpetrators accountable.
Challenges and Considerations:
• Limited Resources: During war, resources are stretched thin, making it difficult
to adequately address gender-specific needs.
• Cultural Norms: Existing gender norms in a society can make it challenging to
implement some protections or create opportunities for women and LGBTQ+
people.
• Long-Term Impact: The impact of war on gender roles and identities can have
lasting consequences, requiring ongoing support for rebuilding communities and
addressing trauma.