Global peacefulness deteriorates for the ninth consecutive year

The 17th edition of the annual Global Peace Index has unveiled a troubling trend - the average level of global peacefulness has deteriorated for the ninth consecutive year. With 84 countries showing an improvement, the state of peace around the world is in dire straits. The report, considered the leading measure of peacefulness worldwide, sheds light on the escalating costs of conflicts and the toll they take on economies, societies, and individuals. To delve deeper into the findings of the report, Steve Killelea, Founder, and Executive Chairman of the Institute for Economics and Peace, offered insights in a recent interview with CNBC Africa. One of the key takeaways from the Global Peace Index 2023 is the alarming rise in violent conflict, with casualties reaching unprecedented numbers. The report highlights that about a quarter of a million people lost their lives in conflicts, notably in regions like Ukraine and Ethiopia. The dire situation is compounded by the fact that wars in the modern era are becoming increasingly unwinnable, even for the most advanced militaries. From Afghanistan to Syria and Yemen, the struggle to achieve peace amidst escalating violence remains a daunting challenge. The economic repercussions of global conflicts are staggering. The cost of violence to the global economy in 2023 was a whopping $17.5 trillion, overshadowing even the impact of the global financial crisis. The use of advanced technology in warfare is exacerbating the situation, making it easier to inflict harm from a distance and leading to immense human and economic losses. The correlation between technology, conflict, and peace is becoming more apparent as new tools amplify the destructive power of warfare. However, amidst this grim reality, there are glimmers of hope in regions like South Africa and parts of West Africa. While some countries on the African continent have seen a rise in conflicts, others have made significant strides towards peace. Nations like Botswana, Cote d'Ivoire, and Guinea-Bissau have shown commendable improvements in peacefulness. On the other hand, regions like the Sahel remain mired in turmoil, facing the brunt of global terrorism. The economic impact of conflicts varies from country to country, with the cost of violence significantly affecting GDP levels. The higher the level of conflict and violence in a region, the greater the economic toll, highlighting the need for comprehensive peace-building efforts. The war in Ukraine stands out as a poignant example of the devastating consequences of conflict. Recording the largest deterioration in peacefulness, the country has suffered immense economic losses amounting to $465 billion, equivalent to 64% of its GDP. The road to recovery for Ukraine is long and arduous, with the prospect of rebuilding infrastructure and restoring stability looming for decades. As the world grapples with the escalating costs of conflict, the need for sustainable peacebuilding initiatives becomes ever more pressing.