VALLEY UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND

TECHNOLOGY

FACULTY OF: EDUCATION

PROGRAM: IN-SERVICE

STUDENTS’ NAME: AGABA EMMANUEL

REG. NO: 21/VUST/ DPE/0073

YEAR: TWO

SEMESTER: TWO

COURSE UNIT: CHRISTIANITY AND PEACE

COURSE CODE: DPE RES 2201

CONTACTS: 0782960108

LECTURER’S NAME; MS. ATUHAIRE PROSCOVIA

QUESTION

PEACE MOVEMENT
Peace is a concept of societal friendship and harmony in the absence of hostility and violence. In

a social sense, peace is commonly used to mean a lack of conflict (such as war) and freedom

from fear of violence between individuals or group

Religious views

Many religions and religious leaders have expressed a desire for an end to violence. Various
religious and secular organizations have the stated aim of achieving world peace through
addressing human rights, technology, education, engineering, medicine, or diplomacy used as an
end to all forms of fighting.

Buddhism

Many Buddhists believe that world peace can only be achieved if individuals establish peace
within their minds first. The Buddha's teachings emphasize that anger and other negative states
of mind are the cause of wars and conflict. Buddhists believe people can live in peace and
harmony only if they abandon negative emotions such as anger and cultivate positive emotions
such as loving-kindness and compassion. As with all Dharmic religions (Hinduism, Jainism,
Buddhism, and Sikhism), ahimsa (avoidance of violence) is a central concept.

Hatred is never appeased by hatred in this world. By non-hatred alone is hatred appeased. This is
a law eternal

Christianity

Christian pacifism

The basic Christian ideal specifies that peace can only come by the Word and love of God, which
is perfectly demonstrated in the life of Christ:

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let
your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

John 14:27

As christologically interpreted from Isaiah 2, whereupon the "Word of the Lord" is established
on the earth, the material human-political result will be 'nation not taking up sword against
nation; nor will they train for war anymore'. Christian world peace necessitates the living of a
proactive life replete with all good works indirect light of the Word of God. The details of such a
life can be observed in the Gospels, especially the historically renowned Sermon on the Mount,
where forgiving those who do wrong things against oneself is advocated among other pious
precepts.

Islam

Islamic Peace

According to Islamic eschatology, the whole world will be united under the leadership of imam
Mahdi. At that time love, justice and peace will be so abundant that the world will be in the
likeness of paradise.

There are other views that shows that it is not a must to pay for peace, by peace can be
achieved in these ways.

Peace Education Is the Foundation of Progress

Peace education enables people to make informed choices and determine their own path in life.
Positive peace education empowers people to know their rights and lead healthy, productive
lives, and contributes to the peace process for a more peaceful society.

The world today faces many interconnected crises that require a more holistic approach to
address. The United Nations is seeking a better understanding of how these problems are
interrelated and how they can be addressed together to enable better conflict prevention.

Peace Initiatives

We can support peace initiatives around the world by donating to organizations that work on
violent conflict areas, such as Peace Brigades International, or by volunteering for peacebuilding,
justice, or human rights initiativesWe can promote peace in:

In our Communities, by working to eradicate poverty and for justice so that everyone is treated
fairly.

We can also encourage others to do these things, and we can support others who do them.
In our homes, by treating everyone with respect and kindness, even when they are angry or
upset.

In our schools, by creating a community of caring and sharing where it is safe to speak our minds
without fear of ridicule or criticism.

Peace begins with us as individuals; it begins with each of us making small changes in our lives
that lead to larger changes in our communities and in our world.

Stand for Social Justice

Mahatma Gandhi believed that peace can only be achieved through social justice. He said that if
you want to change the world, you must first begin by changing yourself.People rarely stand up
for what they believe in because they fear being judged or not accepted by society. But that can
all change if we open our hearts and stand up for what we believe in and fight for social justice.
Even if we don’t achieve global peace, there will be more love and tolerance in the world.

Advocating for Human Rights

Human rights are the fundamental freedoms and protections that each and every one of us is
entitled to.When basic freedoms and protections are guaranteed, people don’t have to fear for
their safety and well-being. They can live free from fear and discrimination and participate fully
in society. This leads to a more peaceful society for all.

Promoting Equality

Equality is a condition in which all people within a given society or isolated group have equal
status in certain respects, including civil rights, freedom of speech, property rights, and equal
access to certain social goods and services. In the political sense, equality encompasses the
concept of equal political representation for all citizens without regard to gender (gender
equality), race, or other physical or social characteristics.

Community Service

Volunteering may not be the main key to peace, but it certainly contributes. Especially in a world
where people know that peace does not pay. If everyone did a little unpaid work to help others
overcome challenges, it would make a big difference.
Kindness and Compassion

Kindness is a virtue. Kindness is a habit. Kindness is a way of life. And kindness is the key that
unlocks all the doors in this world and opens the gates to eternity and heaven itself.

Kindness and compassion are two great pillars on which we can build our lives, our society, and
our world. Kindness is not one of the virtues that we can easily do without or neglect. It is an
essential quality for building a just, peaceful, and happy world.

Practicing Inner Peace

Most of us do not want to be involved in a war, because we know very well that violence is
destructive, spiritually and physically.

When all nations are at peace, there will be no more wars, and we will be able to enjoy a world
full of happiness. Therefore, the first step to world peace is a peaceful heart. If you are at peace
with yourself, you will never feel hatred or aggression toward othersHaving a peaceful attitude
can help resolve conflicts between nations or countries because if there is a conflict between two
countries, the leaders of the countries should sit down and talk about what their differences are
and how they can resolve those differences peacefully without going to war. But if the leaders
are not at peace with themselves, then it becomes difficult for them to solve their problems
without fighting, and so war breaks out.

Promoting peace

Many people are concerned about increasing levels of conflict and violence in society today.

One way to manage the distress and helplessness associated with violence and conflict is to take
some action, however small.

Develop your understanding of the frames of mind that promote conflict and violence against
another group.

The perception that another group threatens our well-being A sense of uncertainty about our
safety and security.
The belief that our own group is superior to another group.

Develop your understanding of the strong emotions that underpin conflict and violence.

Anger about a provoking event and fear of future events can support an aggressive orientation
towards others If anger and fear develop into hatred, others are likely to be perceived as evil;
thereby, supporting harmful intentions towards them.

Pay attention to the ways that language and channels of communication are used to support
conflict and violence

The lives of others may be devalued by public rhetoric and media reports that reduce moral
concern for them.

Beware that public beliefs may be shaped to condone violence against another group and cast
aggression in a morally positive frame.

Recognize that social inequalities are unjust and fuel misery, conflict and violence Attune
yourself to the social conditions that undermine individual and collective well-being such as
poverty and discrimination.

Advocate for equalities in human rights, health care, opportunities, safety and security.

Dig beneath the surface level, negative stereotypes of another group to achieve a deeper
understanding of their identity and concerns.

Find ways for dialogue and collaborative interaction with people who have diverse backgrounds,
different perspectives, and dissimilar values.

Maintain a critical perspective toward the beliefs and actions of your own group Be willing to
question authority, express dissent and offer constructive alternatives when your own group’s
actions cause harm or compromise social justice and peaceful relations.

Recognise and appreciate experiences of shared humanity across diverse groups.

Extend your perspective and empathy by focusing on the common joys and sufferings of all
humans.
Peace movement

A peace movement refers to a collective effort by individuals, organizations, and communities to

promote and advocate for peace on various levels, ranging from local to global. Peace
movements typically aim to prevent or resolve conflicts, promote non-violence, and create
conditions that foster harmony, justice, and stability.

Peace movements can take many forms and address different aspects of peace. Some common
elements and goals of peace movements include:

Anti-war activism: Peace movements often oppose wars and advocate for peaceful solutions to
conflicts. They may organize protests, demonstrations, or campaigns to raise awareness about the
consequences of war and to promote alternatives to violence.

Non-violent resistance: Many peace movements draw inspiration from non-violent philosophies
and strategies, such as those employed by Mahatma Gandhi or Martin Luther King Jr. They
encourage non-violent methods of conflict resolution and promote the power of dialogue,
negotiation, and reconciliation.

Disarmament and arms control: Peace movements often advocate for the reduction and
elimination of weapons, including nuclear disarmament. They may raise awareness about the
dangers posed by the proliferation of arms and work towards international agreements and
treaties aimed at arms control.

Human rights and social justice: Peace movements recognize that peace is closely linked to
social justice and the protection of human rights. They may address issues such as poverty,
inequality, discrimination, and oppression, as they believe that addressing these underlying
causes of conflict is essential for achieving lasting peace.

International cooperation and diplomacy: Peace movements emphasize the importance of

diplomacy, dialogue, and collaboration among nations. They call for increased international
cooperation, the strengthening of international institutions, and the promotion of peaceful
resolutions to conflicts through negotiation and mediation.
Peace movements have played significant roles in various historical events, such as the civil
rights movement in the United States, anti-apartheid movements in South Africa, and the global
movement against the Vietnam War. They continue to be active today, advocating for peace and
working towards a more peaceful and just world.

Advantages of peace movement

While the peace movement has many advantages, it is important to acknowledge that there can
be potential disadvantages or challenges associated with its efforts. Here are some possible
disadvantages:

Ineffectiveness: Despite the noble intentions and efforts of peace movements, they may not
always achieve immediate or tangible results in resolving conflicts. The complexities of
conflicts, deep-rooted divisions, and resistance from opposing parties can hinder the
effectiveness of peace movements.

Opposition and Resistance: Peace movements often face opposition and resistance from those
who benefit from or support the perpetuation of conflicts. Political, economic, or ideological
factors may hinder progress and create obstacles to peace initiatives.

Limited Influence on Powerful Actors: Peace movements often operate at grassroots levels or
within civil society, which can limit their influence on powerful actors such as governments,
military organizations, or international institutions. Their ability to influence decision-making
processes and policy implementation may be restricted.

Lack of Unity and Fragmentation: Within the peace movement itself, there can be a lack of unity
and fragmentation due to diverse perspectives, approaches, and priorities. Disagreements on
strategies, tactics, or priorities can weaken the collective impact and dilute the movement's
effectiveness.

Overgeneralization and Simplification: In some cases, peace movements may oversimplify

complex conflicts or promote generalized solutions without fully understanding the nuances and
specific dynamics of each situation. This oversimplification can limit the effectiveness of their
proposed solutions or strategies.
Marginalization and Exclusion: Certain groups or voices within society may feel marginalized or
excluded from the peace movement's activities and decision-making processes. This can
perpetuate inequalities and hinder the movement's ability to address the root causes of conflicts
comprehensively.

External Interference and Manipulation: Peace movements may face external interference or
manipulation from vested interests seeking to exploit or co-opt their efforts for their own
political, economic, or ideological agendas. This can compromise the autonomy and integrity of
the movement.

Burnout and Sustainability: Sustaining a long-term peace movement requires consistent energy,
resources, and commitment. Activists within the movement may experience burnout due to the
emotional, physical, and financial demands of their work, which can affect the movement's
continuity and impact.

It is important to note that these potential disadvantages should not undermine the value and
importance of peace movements. They highlight the challenges that peace activists may
encounter in their pursuit of peace and provide opportunities for reflection, adaptation, and
growth to overcome these challenges.

Lack of Clear Goals and Strategies: Peace movements may struggle with defining clear goals and
strategies for achieving peace. Without specific objectives and well-defined plans, it can be
challenging to measure progress or rally support effectively.

Difficulties in Reconciling Different Perspectives: Peace movements often involve diverse

stakeholders with different perspectives, interests, and experiences. Finding common ground and
reconciling these differences can be a complex and time-consuming process, potentially
hindering the movement's ability to make meaningful progress.

Limited Resources: Peace movements often operate with limited financial resources and rely
heavily on volunteer efforts. Insufficient funding can restrict their capacity to carry out activities,
raise awareness, and sustain long-term initiatives.

Media Attention and Public Perception: Peace movements may struggle to gain significant media
attention or maintain public interest, particularly when competing with other pressing issues or
sensationalized events. Limited media coverage can hinder their ability to raise awareness and
mobilize support.

Lack of Political Will and Support: Peace movements often rely on political will and support
from governments, policymakers, and influential actors. If there is a lack of commitment or
political support for peaceful solutions, it can undermine the movement's efforts and limit their
impact.

Cultural and Contextual Challenges: Peace movements may face cultural, religious, or contextual
challenges that influence the dynamics of conflicts and peacebuilding efforts. Understanding and
navigating these complexities require cultural sensitivity and localized approaches, which can
pose additional hurdles.

Potential for Co-optation or Manipulation: Peace movements may be susceptible to co-optation

or manipulation by external actors who seek to exploit their efforts for their own interests. This
can dilute the movement's message, compromise its integrity, and hinder its ability to bring about
meaningful change.

Legal and Security Risks: In certain regions or contexts, peace activists may face legal or
security risks due to government crackdowns, repression, or violence from opposing factions.
These risks can deter individuals from engaging in peace movements or escalate tensions within
the movement itself.

It's important to note that these potential disadvantages are not universal or applicable to all
peace movements. The specific challenges and drawbacks can vary depending on the context,
nature of the conflict, and the strategies employed by the movement. Despite these challenges,
peace movements continue to play a vital role in advocating for peaceful resolutions, raising
awareness, and promoting a culture of non-violence
The impact of peace movements on society can be significant and far-reaching. Here are
some effects that peace movements can have on society:

Awareness and Consciousness: Peace movements raise awareness about conflicts, violence, and
the importance of peaceful solutions. They bring attention to the human toll of conflicts, promote
empathy, and inspire individuals to take action for peace. This increased awareness can lead to a
more conscious and compassionate society.

Social Cohesion and Unity: Peace movements often work towards bridging divides, fostering
understanding, and promoting dialogue among different groups within society. By emphasizing
shared values and common goals, they contribute to social cohesion, unity, and a sense of
collective responsibility for peace.

Conflict Transformation: Peace movements advocate for peaceful methods of conflict resolution
and promote dialogue as a means of addressing differences. By encouraging negotiation,
mediation, and reconciliation, they help transform conflicts from destructive and violent
encounters into opportunities for understanding and growth.

Reduction in Violence and Human Suffering: The efforts of peace movements contribute to
reducing violence and human suffering. By advocating for non-violence, disarmament, and
peaceful resolutions, they strive to prevent the escalation of conflicts, minimize casualties, and
protect the well-being of individuals and communities affected by violence.

Promotion of Human Rights and Social Justice: Peace movements often address underlying
causes of conflict, such as inequality, discrimination, and social injustice. By advocating for
human rights, equality, and social justice, they work towards creating more inclusive and
equitable societies, which are essential for sustainable peace.

Policy and Legal Reforms: Peace movements can influence policy and legal reforms that
promote peace and justice. Through advocacy, lobbying, and engaging with policymakers, they
contribute to the development and implementation of laws, policies, and institutional frameworks
that support peaceful resolutions, disarmament, and conflict prevention.
Empowerment and Active Citizenship: Peace movements empower individuals and communities
to take an active role in promoting peace. By providing platforms for engagement, organizing
events, and fostering dialogue, they encourage individuals to become active citizens and agents
of positive change in their communities.

International Cooperation and Diplomacy: Peace movements often advocate for increased
international cooperation, dialogue, and diplomacy as means of resolving conflicts. Their efforts
can contribute to the strengthening of diplomatic channels, the formation of international
partnerships, and the development of peacebuilding initiatives on a global scale.

Sustainable Development and Well-being: Peace is closely linked to sustainable development.

Peace movements recognize this connection and advocate for policies and practices that promote
environmental sustainability, economic justice, and social well-being. By addressing the root
causes of conflicts, they contribute to creating conditions for long-term peace and prosperity

Peace movements can have significant effects on the church and its role in society. Here are
some of the impacts that peace movements can have on the church:

Commitment to Peacemaking: Peace movements often encourage churches to actively engage in

peacemaking efforts. They promote the church's role as a catalyst for peace, urging it to actively
work towards resolving conflicts, promoting non-violence, and advocating for justice and
reconciliation.

Theological Reflection: Peace movements can stimulate theological reflection within the church,
encouraging a deeper examination of biblical teachings on peace, justice, and reconciliation.
They challenge the church to interpret scripture through the lens of peace and to consider the
ethical implications of pursuing peace in a broken world.

Social Witness: Peace movements inspire the church to be a visible and active witness for peace
in society. They encourage churches to take public stands against violence, war, and injustice,
and to actively engage in initiatives that promote peaceful resolutions, disarmament, and
reconciliation.

Interfaith Dialogue: Peace movements often foster interfaith dialogue and collaboration, bringing
together religious communities from different traditions to work towards peace. This can lead to
increased understanding, mutual respect, and joint efforts towards peacebuilding, bridging
divides, and promoting religious harmony.

Nonviolent Resistance: Peace movements advocate for nonviolent methods of resistance and
conflict resolution. They can influence the church to reject violence as a means to achieve its
goals and instead embrace nonviolent practices and strategies when confronting injustice,
oppression, or conflict.

Reconciliation and Healing: Peace movements emphasize the importance of reconciliation and
healing in situations of conflict. They encourage the church to play a role in facilitating dialogue,
promoting forgiveness, and working towards healing and restoration within communities
affected by violence or division.

Global Solidarity: Peace movements foster a sense of global solidarity among churches and
religious communities around the world. They encourage churches to support and stand in
solidarity with communities affected by conflicts, to provide humanitarian aid, and to advocate
for peaceful resolutions at both local and international levels.

Ethical Investment and Divestment: Peace movements often call for ethical investment practices
and divestment from industries that contribute to violence or conflict. They can influence the
church to align its financial practices with its commitment to peace by scrutinizing investments
and supporting initiatives that promote peacebuilding and justice.

In conclusion it is important to note that the effects of peace movements on the church can vary
depending on the particular context, the theological perspectives within the church, and the level
of engagement and commitment of church leadership and members. Nonetheless, peace
movements provide valuable inspiration, guidance, and opportunities for the church to actively
live out its mission of promoting peace, justice, and reconciliation in the world.
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