Can Economic Reform Bring World Peace?

WHY SOME SAY YES

They believe that the more countries trade with one another, the less likely they will be to fight. For example, as the member states of the European Union integrated their economies, they became more dependent on one another. This was said to promote peace and stability in a region with a history of conflict.

African leaders have also connected prosperity with peace, and they claim that they can achieve both goals. “We are establishing the foundation for a massive increase in trade and investment in infrastructure,” says South African president, Cyril Ramaphosa. He states: “Economic prosperity is key to sustainable peace.”

They believe that spending more on preventing conflict can pave the way to peace. They reason that when businesses invest in countries where there is a high risk of conflict, new jobs can be created and public services improved. Such efforts can address issues that are considered causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality, and a lack of opportunities for young people.

They believe that business can support programs that help build peace. For example, it is thought that mentoring young people by having them participate in local community projects can steer them away from terrorism and extremism. Meanwhile, the African Development Bank recommends that financial organizations work closely with humanitarian and peacebuilding efforts.

TO THINK ABOUT

The international community has invested billions into economic development in recent decades.

• If that approach could lead to world peace, why are there still so many conflicts around the world?

• Can economic reform truly address conflicts that are driven by nationalism, religious extremism, or political divisions?

  

  Bottom: Kevin Frayer/​Getty Images

  Economic reforms cannot eliminate human greed

WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS

This verse highlights an important truth: The love of money, or greed, can lead to harmful actions. When people are mainly driven by the desire for wealth, they often make decisions that hurt themselves and others.​—Ecclesiastes 5:10.

Many conflicts begin with greed. Countries may fight over resources such as water, oil, or land that can bring economic wealth. Businesses may prioritize profits over people. Nations may exploit trade for selfish gain, fueling mistrust and tension. Even powerful countries may use their economic strength to dominate weaker ones, threatening global peace.

Economic reforms cannot eliminate human greed. The Bible explains that true peace will come when people are taught God’s ways and not because of trade deals or economic reforms. (Micah 4:2, 3) Those willing to be taught by God will no longer learn war, and they will make changes to their deep-seated way of thinking. They will change their attitude toward war and violence. They will learn how to be peacemakers instead of learning how to fight.​—Romans 12:18.