INTER-CULTURAL communication is the key to avoiding a possible larger tragedy in these troubled times. Human beings are social animals who cannot live alone. Globalisation has connected all nations with each other, but the looming clouds of devastation, lust for power, and dream to rule the masses are ringing alarm bells across the world.

It seems that the Arab-Iran conflict, the Russia-Ukraine war and the push and pull between the United States and China are all leading us to the Thucydides’ Trap, which is a term popularised by American political scientist Graham Allison in his book Destined for War: America, China and Thucydides’ Trap and relates to a situation where a rising power (for instance, China) challenges the incumbent (say, the United States).

In this nuclear age, statesmen, iconic representatives and organisations should come forward to avert the militarised crises in the world. There is no denying that a nuclear war would be devastating for humans across the board.

In the changing world order, when global power is shifting from the West to the East, international organisations, like the United Nations, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) and International Monetary Fund (IMF), should ensure equality among all states.

Therefore, intercultural communications should be promoted by enhancing mutual tourism, opening borders and by stirring up ‘Art for Peace’ initiatives. Broadcasting serials and films would help to build interfaith harmony.

Pakistan has done quite well to open the Kartarpur Corridor for Sikh pilgrims and has won millions of hearts across the globe, especially across the border. Similarly, mitigating Islamophobia and eradicating ethnocentrism should be among the top priorities of the global watchdogs.

Syeda Hadia Bakhtawar
Nankana Sahib

Published in Dawn, April 30th, 2022