BUILDING A COHESIVE SOCIETY

In order to create a better future for ourselves and future generations, we must embrace non-violence in a world that has witnessed innumerable wars, conflicts, and violent acts. It’s important to acknowledge the negative impacts of violence and work towards peaceful alternatives because violence has never been the solution to any social issues. Violence feeds on itself. Throughout the course of human history, this basic reality has been repeatedly shown. People become fearful and distrustful when violence occurs. They develop a fear of their neighbours and other local residents, which makes it challenging for them to connect and form relationships. As a result, societal cohesiveness breaks down and interpersonal trust decreases. It can split a community apart and set one group against another. Rival groups may develop as a result of this and refuse to collaborate or work as a unit. These divisions can engender enmity, resentment, and stress, which can result in more violence and unrest. Violence also sets off a never-ending cycle of retaliation as each party wants to exact revenge on the other for the harm done to them. This may lead to protracted disputes that may never be settled, harming both people and communities. It creates a culture of terror where people constantly worry about when the next violent act will happen and live in perpetual dread. Progress and peaceful cohabitation are not possible in such a setting.

Human rights and democratic principles are threatened by violence. It is a rejection of the core values of liberty, justice, and equality. It furthers marginalisation and prejudice, dividing society. Those in positions of authority frequently resort to violence to quell dissent and uphold their authority, denying the public the freedom to voice their opinions and take part in decision-making. Any form of violence has negative physical and psychological effects. Violence can also challenge societal norms that are crucial to preserving a stable and functional community. Aggression, bigotry, and intolerance are just a few examples of bad activities that it can normalise and make acceptable. Positive results can be achieved by non-violent means like negotiation, mediation, and discourse. They enable calm dispute resolution in which all parties can voice their grievances and come to an understanding. Additionally, nonviolent approaches foster a society that is more cohesive and inclusive by fostering respect for human rights, democracy, and justice.

A crucial instrument for peaceful dispute resolution is dialogue. It enables people and groups to respectfully and honestly share their ideas and viewpoints. People can identify common ground, comprehend one another’s worries, and strive towards a win-win resolution through discourse. In addition to promoting social cohesion and a sense of community, dialogue also helps people and groups establish bonds with one another. Another efficient strategy for peaceful dispute resolution is mediation. It entails the involvement of an unbiased third party who helps the disputing parties come to an amicable agreement. Interpersonal conflicts, communal conflicts, and international problems can all be resolved through mediation. It eases tension and antagonism, fosters understanding and cooperation, and aids in the development of trust between parties in dispute. Another crucial instrument for peaceful dispute resolution is negotiation. It entails a structured dialogue between the parties with the goal of coming to a win-win arrangement. In business, foreign diplomacy, and neighbourhood disputes, negotiation is frequently used. It encourages respect for one another’s viewpoints and goals and aids in fostering relationships between the parties. Non-violent strategies foster healthy relationships, trust, and societal cohesiveness. They are crucial to creating a more favourable world for present and future generations. In order to advance freedom, justice, and equality for all, society as a whole must reject violence and embrace non-violent alternatives. To embrace non-violence, we must start by educating ourselves and future generations about its importance.