Humanitarian diplomacy is the key to peace and harmony

Humanitarian diplomacy is persuading decision makers and leaders to always act in the interest of vulnerable and economically dependent people, keeping in sight the fundamental humanitarian principles. Discussions must be held with intent to change opinions towards a positive common objective.

I may sound repetitive but this is only to emphasise the importance of a regional economic future which is only possible, in my opinion, through sensible, focussed and fair talks.

Humanitarian diplomacy includes: advocating, negotiating, communicating and certain other measures. I have always been passionate and aggressively involved in this field throughout my career, which includes governments, international organisations, NGOs, the private sector and often through direct contact with influential individuals. There maybe endless keywords but I’m always drawn towards dialogue, diplomacy and a good judgement . This is not about religion, history or culture nor is it a battle between evil versus good. This is bigger than that, as it this for the greater good for all mankind.

One of my daily challenges as the president of GKSD investment holding and chairman of ECAM council is to witness conversations where opposing views are usually the starting point. I always believe in hearing all sides, so it becomes clear as to what will persuade them to see things my way, keeping in mind my personal beliefs.

We have not faced a conflict in recent times like the one we face today. NATO headed by the United States has to for the first time decide whether to protect or partake. Whether it is an invasion or a conflict, there are always casualties on both sides. There will be no winner but two nations that will have to rebuild and reset.

It is very obvious that a nuclear war will lead to dire consequences for the entire world, and this is the exact reason diplomacy needs to start with the objective of peace. Humanitarian diplomacy will definitely lead to a ceasefire as provocation only causes destruction and loss of innocent lives. To quote the UN Kenyan ambassador, during his address of the ‘ special operations’ :

‘Today across the border of every single African country , live our countrymen with whom we share deep historical, cultural and linguistic bonds. At independence had we chosen to pursue states on the basis of ethnic, racial or religious homogeneity, we would still be waging bloody wars these many decades later. We chose to follow the rules of the organisation of African unity and the United Nations charter, not because our borders satisfied us, but because we wanted something greater, forged in peace.”