A key to peace: global unity (II)

(This is a continuation of the previous instalment: "A key to peace: global unity (I)"). 

The internal state of conflict has become at least a cause for concern. These issues could escalate and fuel the destruction of peace. And the effect of such conflicts would certainly not be restricted to the West, but would have an impact on the whole world, especially on Muslim countries, and relations between East and West would seriously deteriorate. Improving the situation and developing peace therefore requires all parties involved to work together. Governments must make policies that establish and protect mutual respect, and through which acts that hurt other people's feelings or cause them any kind of harm are outlawed.

As far as immigrants are concerned, they must come with a willingness to integrate into the local population, which, for its part, must be willing to open its hearts and show tolerance. On the other hand, the introduction of certain restrictions against Muslims will not lead to peace, as these restrictions alone cannot change people's minds and opinions. This fact is not limited to Muslims, for wherever a person feels forcibly repressed, because of his religion or belief, he will generate a negative reaction which will seriously harm peace. As I have already said, there are certain countries where conflicts are increasing, in particular between the local population and Muslim immigrants. It is clear that both sides are becoming less and less tolerant and there is a reluctance to try to get to know each other. The European leadership must accept this reality and understand that the establishment of mutual respect and religious tolerance is its responsibility; that it is essential for an atmosphere of goodwill to develop and for world peace not to break down, both within European countries and between European countries and Muslims.

In my view, the cause of these conflicts and divisions is not just about religion and belief, nor is it simply a question of differences between Western and Muslim countries. A major cause of discord has been the global financial crisis. When there was no recession or credit crunch, no one was bothered by the influx of immigrants; whether Muslim, non-Muslim or African. Now, however, the situation is different and it is this that has given rise to this uncomfortable situation. So much so that it has even affected the mutual relations of European countries, so that the anger and resentment among the people of some European nations towards the citizens of other European countries is increasing day by day. This state of despair is visible everywhere.

The formation of the European Union has been a great achievement on the part of the countries of Europe, as it has served as a means of uniting the continent. They must therefore do all they can to preserve this unity by fulfilling their obligations to the rights of others. They must eradicate the fears and concerns of the general public. They must be willing to accept their just and equitable demands and protect their respective societies. And, of course, the citizens of each country must make demands that are fair and balanced. Remember that Europe's strength lies in standing united and together as one. This union is not only in Europe's interest, but is the way to maintain the continent's strength and influence globally. Indeed, from an Islamic perspective, we must strive for the whole world to be united.

In economic terms, the world must also be brought together. In terms of free enterprise and trade, the world must also be united, and in terms of freedom of movement and immigration, practical policies of cohesion must be developed whereby the whole world can also come together. In essence, countries must seek to cooperate with each other so that division is replaced by unity. When these steps are taken, it will not be long before it becomes clear how existing conflicts disappear and peace and mutual respect prevail in their place, provided that true justice is practised and each country is aware of its responsibility. But it is with great regret that I must say that, despite this being an essential Islamic teaching, Islamic countries have been unable to unite with each other. If only they were able to cooperate and unite they would not have to constantly seek Western aid and relief to alleviate their internal problems and needs.

Con estas palabras, ahora voy a proceder a hablar de las verdaderas enseñanzas islámicas en relación con el establecimiento de una paz duradera en el mundo.  

Firstly, a basic teaching of Islam is that a true Muslim is one from whose tongue and hands all other peaceful people are safe. This is the definition of a Muslim given by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). After hearing this beautiful fundamental principle, could anyone level an accusation or reproach against Islam? Certainly not. Islam teaches that only those who use their tongues and hands to spread injustice and hatred deserve to be punished. Therefore, if from the local level to the global level, all parties were to keep within the bounds of this golden principle, there would be no religious disorder, no political strife, and no disorder based on greed and lust for power. If these true Islamic principles were followed within each country, citizens would protect the rights and feelings of others, and governments would fulfil their functions of safeguarding all citizens. Internationally, all nations would work together in a spirit of sincere sympathy and compassion for others. 

Another key principle that Islam teaches is that in promoting peace, neither side should show any pride or arrogance. This principle was perfectly illustrated by the Holy Prophet (lpbD) when he stated that "neither is the black superior to the white, nor is the white superior to the black". Nor is the European superior to any citizen of any other country; nor are Africans, Asians or people from any part of the world. Differences of nation, colour or ethnicity have the mere value of providing identity and recognition.

The truth is that in the modern world we are all dependent on each other. Today, even great powers like Europe or the United States cannot survive in isolation from each other. Nor can African countries remain isolated and hope to prosper, nor can Asian countries or people anywhere in the world. For example, if you want your economy to prosper, you must be willing to embrace international trade. A clear example of how the world is interconnected is illustrated by the fact that the European, or global, financial crisis of recent years has, to a greater or lesser extent, negatively affected every country in the world. On the other hand, progress in science and other fields of expertise forces countries to cooperate and help each other.

We must always remember that Al'lah Almighty has endowed all the people of the world, whether they are from Africa, Europe, Asia or elsewhere, with great intellectual capacities. If all parties were to utilise, for the good of humanity, the best of their God-given abilities and faculties, we would find the world becoming an oasis of peace. However, if the developed countries attempt to suppress the growth and progress of the less developed, or developing, countries, and do not give opportunities to the fertile and brilliant minds of the other nations, then unrest will spread, and the resulting unrest will ruin international peace and security.

(lpbD) - peace and blessings of God be upon him. 

(lpD) - peace be upon him. 

(We will continue this discourse in the next instalment: "A Key to Peace: Global Unity (III)").