The Holy See has reiterated its commitment to conflict prevention, conflict resolution and post-conflict stabilization and peace consolidation, stressing that development, security and human rights are the key to peace. Speaking on behalf of His Grace Archbishop Bernadito Auza, the Holy See’s Permanent Observer to the UN in New York, Second Secretary, Father David Charters made the pledge in an address to a UN General Assembly meeting on peacekeeping operations.
As reported by Vatican news, Fr. Charters recalled Pope Francis’ advice that war is the negation of all rights. Hence, to ensure human development, we must work tirelessly to avoid war between nations and peoples by ensuring the rule of law and by never tiring to have recourse to negotiation, mediation and arbitration. The Holy See mission official said that conflict prevention, conflict resolution and peace building processes and efforts must involve all sectors of society, in order to foster trust among all its citizens. Inclusive partnerships at all levels thus become community efforts in building build lasting peace and stability.
Fr. Charters said that insecurity and injustices like inequality, corruption, poor governance and illicit financial and arms flows, all give rise to violence in societies. On the contrary, inclusive and sustainable development is not only an end in itself but is also the best defense against the risks of violent conflicts.
