Pursuit Of Peace Research Articles

Confronting the Giants of Neoliberalism, Managerialism, and Positivism: Emancipatory Praxis and the Pursuit of Peace

Confronting the Giants of Neoliberalism, Managerialism, and Positivism: Emancipatory Praxis and the Pursuit of Peace

ON THE NECESSITY OF CHANGES IN THE MENTALITY OF THE LEADERSHIP AND FUNCTIONARIES OF LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT BODIES OF TERRITORIAL COMMUNITIES OF UKRAINE

Based on the analysis of the results and experience gained in the processes of decentralization of power and reforming the territorial structure of Ukraine, the article concludes that the quality of governance of a number of newly formed territorial communities (TCs) in the difficult conditions of simultaneously confronting the military aggression of the russian federation and the need to implement a set of European integration measures is affected and will be affected in the future by the current mental state of their population and local self-government bodies. It is demonstrated that this state is a consequence of the long-term impact on consciousness and intelligence, knowledge and experience, management and life traditions, mentality and mentality of the population of the ideologemes of the so-called Eastern institutional matrix (communitarianism, rigid centralized management and non-market economy). The European integration intentions of the population and leadership of Ukraine require changes in this state in the direction of achieving and ensuring the ideologemes of the Western institutional matrix (individual freedoms, decentralized governance and market economy). Since the results of the comparative analysis of the values and ideals of the mental attitudes of the population of the EU and Ukraine, with the obvious presence of common priorities of peace, human rights and democracy, demonstrate the advantages of Ukrainians in the pursuit of peace and preservation of human life, but also reflect quite significant differences in the area of non-compliance by Ukrainian citizens with the requirements of respect for other cultures and even the requirements of the implementation of existing laws, this makes it quite obvious that a number of training activities on certain transformational changes should be planned and implemented. To this end, it is necessary to use the existing potential of the current system of training and retraining of current and future personnel of the public administration and management system at all its levels, starting with the basic one – the staff of local self-government bodies of TCs.

Promoting Global Peace: The Role of Biodiversity Conservation, Climate Action, and Environmental Diplomacy

This study aims to analyze the role of biodiversity conservation, climate action, and environmental diplomacy in promoting global peace. The research method used involves literature study and analysis of relevant data from reliable sources. The result show that biodiversity conservation is the main foundation for advancing global peace and this is achieved by diminishing conflicts of resources, health, and well-being. Climate action have also been found a crucial component to prevent forced migration and displacement of communities; and thus, fosters global efforts towards peace. In addition, environmental diplomacy, which facilitates cooperation and reduces conflicts, also plays a vital role in global pursuit of peace. In conclusion, the integration of protection and conservation of biodiversity, climate action, and diplomacy in environmental affairs in a holistic manner can result in sustainable global peace.

"Too much of a burden": Lived experiences of depressive rumination in early adulthood.

Rumination is an established transdiagnostic factor in mental illness, but there remains a significant gap in understanding the subjective experiences of those affected by it. This study explored the lived experiences of depressive rumination in early adulthood, a population notably susceptible to its effects. We interviewed 20 participants aged between 18 and 35 years using a semistructured approach and generated five distinct but interconnected themes using reflective thematic analysis. The first theme delved into recurrent narratives of past traumas and unresolved pain, with participants unable to move on from their past. The second theme illustrated how participants, due to real or perceived pressure, often equated their self-worth with their ability to meet expectations, leading to a distorted self-view and diminished self-esteem. The third theme captured the relentless pursuit of mental peace, with tranquility remaining ever elusive despite the frequent use of distraction. The fourth theme highlighted the profound isolation stemming from internalized mental health stigma, with participants grappling with fears of being perceived as burdensome and facing rejection from their close ones. Finally, the fifth theme underscored the far-reaching and interconnected repercussions of rumination on mental, emotional, and physical health and individuals' ability to achieve their life goals. These findings emphasize the intertwined nature of psychological, physiological, and social risk factors for the development and maintenance of rumination, advocating for a holistic treatment approach to rumination and paving the way for more timely, tailored care. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Azerbaijan’s 2023 counterterrorism operation in Karabakh region: causes and consequences

Purpose: is to discuss the possible causes and consequences of Azerbaijan’s 2023 counterterrorism operation in Karabakh region. Method: comparative analysis, and synthesis. Findings: Azerbaijan is one of few countries which successfully waged a full-scale war against Armenia in order to restore its territorial integrity and conducted impeccable counterterrorism operation of the local nature against illegal armed groups in Karabakh region in order to eliminate separatism and ensure its sovereignty over liberated territories. A set of principles is usually followed to conduct counterterrorism operations, which are intricate and multidimensional, with the goal of efficiently fighting terrorist threats while minimizing collateral harm and safeguarding human rights. All principles of counterterrorism operation were met and Azerbaijan eliminated separatism once and for all and ensured its sovereignty over the liberated territories. What makes this operation different from many operations of the same nature, is that a long-term approach – one of the most important principles of the counterterrorism operations has been applied, where the immediate security concerns were eradicated, the source of separatism was isolated, the ideological extremism was dispelled, the promotion of stability was ensured, left no reason for foreign troops (so-called Russian peacekeepers) to stay in its territory. Theoretical implications: The paper enhances our understanding of key concepts of counterterrorism operations in general and provides new insights for understanding the possible causes and consequences of Azerbaijan’s 2023 counterterrorism operation. The results obtained in the study have broader implications for national security strategies in pursuit of eradicating the similar problems in different contexts. Practical implications: Azerbaijan’s 2023 counterterrorism operation is a typical example for the nations suffering from the same problem. Applying different aspects of this operation as depicted in the paper would definitely contribute to the adjustment of tactics and techniques, reallocation of resources, effective application of new technologies by the nations to eliminate the separatism within their internationally recognized territories. Value: The study presents Azerbaijan’s 2023 counterterrorism operation as a model for eradicating the problems of the same nature in pursuit of peace and stability in different regions, delineates the principles of the counterterrorism operations and explains them in the example of the operation conducted by Azerbaijan Armed Forces. Paper type: theoretical.

Raëlism: An Unconventional Religious Pathway to Transhumanism

Raëlism is a controversial new religious movement that originated in France in the 1970s and has since spread around the world. The movement’s core tenets are rooted in science, technology, and freedom and can be summarized as a blend of science and spirituality, millenarianism, revelation, story, pseudoscience, and reinterpretation. Raëlians believe in the extraterrestrial origin of humanity and promote the pursuit of higher consciousness, inner peace, individual empowerment, and peace-building. To this end, the movement offers a series of seminars that aim to provide a transformative experience for participants and leads various social initiatives and projects at a global level. Although Raëlism has gained popularity among some individuals, it has also been the subject of substantial criticism and controversy, particularly because of its unconventional views on sexuality and its alleged support for human cloning and genetic engineering. Nonetheless, the movement continues to be a subject of interest and scrutiny for scholars, journalists, and the curious. This article provides an overview of the history, ideology, and practices of the Raëlian Movement and its relationship with transhumanism.

The Art of the (Im)possible: Ethical Limits and Christian “Kenotic” Inspirations for Diplomacy

The aim of this article is to challenge an ideologically overestimated view of diplomacy as a universal self-sustaining value and remedy for unpredictably chained and escalated conflicts in the world. The article shows the necessary connection between diplomacy and the fragility of human ethical decision-making, including in the areas of strategy, international politics, and military defense. This more modest approach also applies to proposals for diplomacy built on direct or indirect religious inspirations. The article calls for a nuanced critical approach to religious diplomacy and the positive transformation of the limits of human rational negotiation by the paradoxical “power of the powerless” and transcendental mystery. The final part provides three biblically-inspired Christian opportunities for this transformation: endurance of faith, voluntary self-denial (kenosis), and the complex “two level”—both protective and eschatological—pursuit of peace.

More Conflicts, More Deaths—Everyone Talks about Winning the War, but No One Talks About Achieving Peace

This article examines the multifaceted challenges posed by the current global conflict landscape, emphasizing the interconnectedness of development, security, and peace. Firstly, the article highlights the increase in both state and non state conflicts, with fatalities nearly doubling from 2021 to 2022. This escalation is marked by significant conflicts like the Russia–Ukraine war and the Tigray conflict in Ethiopia, contributing to the deterioration of global security. The analysis also touches on the failure of regional and international organizations such as the African Union, ASEAN, and the United Nations in effectively managing these conflicts and maintaining peace. Secondly, the article delves into the evolving nature of warfare, including the rise of digital attacks and hybrid warfare, which blend conventional and unconventional tactics. This section underscores the need for a new, comprehensive peace architecture to address the array of modern threats, including climate change and pandemics, which extend beyond traditional military concerns. Finally, the article discusses the concerning decline of anti-war movements in the West, particularly in light of recent conflicts like the Ukraine war. This decline is attributed to various factors, including the perception of Western military actions as inherently benevolent and the shift in activism focus to issues like climate change and social justice. The article argues that this decline has profound implications for democratic processes and the global pursuit of peace.

Indian Ocean Internationalisms: The Sri Lankan Pursuit of Peace, 1971–89

In 1971 the Sri Lankan Prime Minister tabled the Indian Ocean as a Zone of Peace at the 26th United Nations General Assembly, marking the state's international debut at the global stage. This article analyses the trajectory of this highly significant initiative in the context of rapidly evolving political instabilities within Sri Lanka and across the Indian Ocean region. It argues that Sri Lanka's pursuit of peace during the 1970s and 1980s stemmed from multiple threats to its sovereignty combined with the state's desire to develop strategic allies and the material donations that flowed from those relations. The pursuit saw Sri Lanka align with India, the USA, the Soviet Union, and Britain at moments of political deterioration. These alignments enabled the Sri Lankan government to seek material supports to address breakdowns of political relations with the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna in the south and Tamils in the north and east. The article argues that the Sri Lankan pursuit of peace irrevocably transformed Indian Ocean internationalisms and shows how a small state aligned to suit its political needs. The pursuit also linked Sri Lanka's Indian Ocean peace efforts to a liberal order in problematic ways and strengthened international backing for violence against its citizens.

Should we come to the defence of God? Dealing with an alleged case of blasphemy in predominantly Catholic Philippines

ABSTRACT On 10 July 2023, Amadeus Fernando Pagente, also known as Pura Luka Vega, posted a video of his drag performance on X, formerly known as Twitter. In the controversial clip, he is seen dancing with revellers to a remix of the ‘Our Father’, a prayer attributed to Christ himself, while wearing a gold and maroon outfit with metallic accessories evocative of the vestments of the Black Nazarene, a popular religious icon among Catholics in the Philippines. The post quickly became viral, drew public criticism, and eventually led to Pagente’s arrest on 4 October 2023. Through a survey and analysis of related doctrines and practices of the Catholic Church, from Scriptures to current times, and their application to the case in question, this paper re-examines the ethical issue of blasphemy and the question of defending God, proposing Christ’s patience as an alternative model of response towards the pursuit of peace in an increasingly plural and secular world.

Metternich, the German Question and the Pursuit of Peace: 1840–1848

Metternich, the German Question and the Pursuit of Peace: 1840–1848

“Time for God’s Peace.” Approaching a Centennial in Dialogue with Pioneers in Ecumenical History

Abstract This article explores how the pursuit of peace can inspire ecumenical theological discourses. Discussing the theme of the approaching Swedish Ecumenical Centennial in 2025, “Time for God’s Peace,” the article calls attention to voices of ecumenists who gathered in Sweden in the interwar and postwar periods, in the context of the Life and Work and the Faith and Order movements. By means of taking the endeavours of pioneers in ecumenical history into regard, the investigation focuses on how theology can be constructed with a peacebuilding purpose. Considering that the churches have not only played a peaceful role in face of conflict and war, the article entails exploring the role of self-critical introspection in such ecumenical theological work. Moreover, with regard to the future oriented nature of this work, the article pays particular attention to how it has engaged young ecumenists.

Enhance Kenya University Undergraduate Employability Through Team Sports Participation: University Students Athletes

Purpose: Employability is a major issue worldwide, and Kenya is increasingly looking to universities to develop employable undergraduate students. A low undergraduate unemployment rate is considered as a sign of a thriving economy, while a high unemployment rate is seen as a waste of national resources. The aim of this study was to examine how undergraduate participating in team sports in Kenya university can enhance employ ability
 Methodology: The study used a desktop approach where literature was sought from different sources. The research was carried out with consideration given to previous theoretical literature, both published and unpublished. 
 Findings: Most employers look for specific skills and attributes in job prospects in addition to academic requirements. These attributes, known as employability skills, aren't job-specific, yet they can boost undergraduate student athletes’ employability since they increase productivity and value at work also have an impact on ability to grow career wise.
 Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: Team sports has the potential to provide marginalized and underprivileged undergraduate athletes with adequate abilities, skills, and pathways to job or social enterprise-based possibilities. Participation in team sports can bring young people together in the pursuit of universal peace and a desire to improve themselves. Hence, university management should have good organization, facilitation, and oversight should be provided by university sports management.

Navigating wartime communications: multinational corporations in the Russia-Ukraine war

AbstractThis article explores the communication strategies of multinational corporations in response to the Russo-Ukrainian War and the public pressure to divest from the Russian domestic market. By content analyzing official statements from the top 50 revenue-generating multinational corporations in Russia, the article identifies patterns in corporate narratives about the war, their actions and concerns, and potential solutions. The findings reveal that most companies declare scaling down their presence in Russia while maintaining certain basic obligations, prioritizing employee safety, and expressing concerns about the global economy. While few explicitly condemn Russia's aggression, many adopt neutral language to avoid naming Russia as the aggressor. Corporations emphasize the importance of diplomacy, adherence to international law, and the pursuit of peace, but often avoid proposing concrete solutions. Despite variations across industries, countries of origin, and decisions to stay or leave Russia, the differences in statements were not significant. The uniformity of corporate statements and evidence that companies frequently do not follow their declared promises suggest potential “bluewashing” – making vague or false claims of social responsibility or anti-war stances to improve their public image. These findings emphasize the need for multinational corporations to develop sincere and original wartime communication strategies.

Unveiling the climate–conflict nexus: Examining the influence of weather extremes on conflict emergence in the Philippine Bangsamoro

Extreme weather events have been closely associated with the escalation of violent conflicts. This article introduces empirical evidence that underscores the vulnerability of conflict emergence to extended deficit rainfall values within Maguindanao, a province situated in the Bangsamoro region of the southern Philippines. Using a combination of satellite data, hydrological analysis and an examination of conflict databases, our study unveils the pivotal role played by protracted droughts and intensified precipitation in fostering human insecurity, consequently elevating the likelihood of violent conflicts. Our research spotlights the climate–conflict nexus within this relatively less-explored geographical area. Our findings underscore a robust association between instances of violent conflicts, protracted deficits or episodes of intense rainfall, and the subsequent surge in food prices. Notably, disruptions in food prices align temporally with heightened participation in violent conflicts by individuals. In essence, the emergence of violent conflicts exacerbates fragility, thereby engendering a vicious cycle that intertwines climate change, conflict dynamics and the pursuit of peace.

Peaceful Settlement of International Disputes

Disputes (disagreements) between States are an evitable part of international relations and have frequently led to armed conflicts. Under Article 2/3 of the UN Charter, all member States are obliged to settle their international disputes by peaceful means in such a manner that international peace and security, and justice, are not endanger. It is a natural corollary to the obligation of States to refrain from the threat or use of force as enshrined in Article 2/4 of the Charter of the United Nations, The maintenance of international peace and security has always been the major purpose of the International Law. It was the basic objective behind the creation of the League of Nations in 1919 and the United Nations in 1945. Since the direct cause of war and violence is always a dispute between States, it is therefore in the interest of peace and security that disputes should be settled. Methods and procedures for the peaceful (pacific) settlement of disputes have been made available in the International Law. The methods of peaceful settlement of dispute can be classified into three principal categories: diplomatic, adjudicative, and institutional methodologies

Kenya’s Peace Diplomacy in Eastern Africa: Regional Hegemon?

Kenya’s Peace Diplomacy in Eastern Africa: Regional Hegemon?

Book Review: Martin Hurcombe and Philip Dine (eds), Sport and the Pursuit of War and Peace from the Nineteenth Century to the Present: War Minus the Shooting?

Book Review: Martin Hurcombe and Philip Dine (eds), <i>Sport and the Pursuit of War and Peace from the Nineteenth Century to the Present: War Minus the Shooting?</i>

Spirituality and Mental Health: A Chinese Perspective

Although spirituality and mental health were considered two separate worlds in the past, it is becoming increasingly apparent that spirituality is an important aspect of mental health. The concept of spirituality continues to evolve and now encompasses personal quests and non-materialistic values, one's core belief systems, the pursuit of peace and purpose in life, connection to self and others, and self-transcendence. These spiritual values are deeply influenced by one's culture. To be able to provide culturally sensitive care to people from diverse cultures, it is necessary to better understand and appreciate their spiritual belief systems. This understanding can provide valuable insights into the factors contributing to patients' psychological imbalance and help-seeking behaviors and inform treatment plans that are coherent with their world-views and preferences. [ Psychiatr Ann . 2023;53(12):535–539.]

Questions of Peace: Judges 6:11-32 and the Obstacles to Harmony between Gideon and His Elders

The Hebrew Bible exhibits a deep interest in the transmission of the faith tradition from one generation to the next, and the book of Judges is no exception. As Judges begins, the passing of a generation is signaled by the death of Joshua (Judges 1:1), which is soon followed by the story of Caleb, his daughter, and his nephew (1:12-15). Then, Israel’s failure to pass on the faith to the next generation is noted in Judges 2:10. Throughout the book, the narratives of the judges report the ups and downs of each succeeding generation as one judge after another rises up, brings deliverance, and eventually dies (3:7-16:31). Near the center of the book, we find the story of Gideon (6:12-8.32), whose goal is the defeat of the Midianites and the restoration of peace to his community (6:24). Gideon’s first conflict, however, is with his own father and with the other elders in his village. In response to Yahweh’s dramatic visitation, Gideon names his new altar “Yahweh is Peace,” but he soon learns that peace is complicated and elusive. This brief study of Gideon’s pursuit of peace will be structured around four piercing questions found in the narrative: “Where are all his wonders?” (6:13), “How can I save Israel?” (6:15), “Who has done this thing?” (6:29), and “Would you plead for Baal?” (6:31). Each of these questions probes Gideon’s engagement with his elders and causes the reader to question the possibility of peace.