World history is filled with wars, conflicts, and tensions. So, what if these conflicts had never existed? What kind of place would the world be? Have you ever thought about it? You must have pondered this at some point.
Unfortunately, even on issues we all agree on, numerical examples are often the only way to be taken seriously. Therefore, I will attempt to answer the question, "What would economic prosperity, technological development, hunger, and poverty look like if there were no wars and conflicts?" by presenting some theses and numerical comparisons.
Economic Prosperity
Let’s start with the topic of economic prosperity. Wars result in the loss of trillions of dollars globally each year. As of 2020, the economic loss due to war and violence around the world is estimated to be around $14.5 trillion.
If this enormous amount could be spent on health, education, and infrastructure, we could see a significant increase in national income growth rates each year.
In a world without wars, the annual global growth rate could have likely reached levels of 4-5%
In a world without wars, the annual global growth rate could have likely reached levels of 4-5%. Today, however, this rate is generally around 2-3%. Just think about how this difference would change people's living standards. This could serve as a response for those who say, “The economy improves with wars.”
Technological Development
Another important topic is technological development. While military research generally contributes to the development of innovative technologies, in a war-free environment, these technologies could be used for more peaceful and social purposes.
According to a study conducted in 2021, wars and conflicts lead to significant losses in innovation. If there were no wars, advancements in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and energy could be much faster.
If annual investments in new technologies were increased by 20%, there could be more development worldwide
For instance, if annual investments in these areas were increased by 20%, there could be more development worldwide. If we were focused on health, sports, culture, art, design, and “digitalisation for everyone” instead of weapons or weaponised technologies, we could be in a different place today.
I want to remind you that because Nixon supported the Space Shuttle project by saying, “We don’t need to go to Mars,” humanity lost 50 years in space exploration.
Hunger and Poverty
The impact of wars on hunger and poverty is undeniable. According to 2021 data, approximately 811 million people worldwide suffer from hunger, and a significant portion of this number lives in conflict zones.
If there were no wars, it’s possible that this number could drop to around 400-450 million. The World Bank predicts that the poverty rate estimated at 9% could fall below 5% in a peaceful environment. Just think, one in five people lives below the poverty line. This rate might very well decrease by half in a world without wars.
Approximately 811 million people worldwide suffer from hunger, and a significant portion of this number lives in conflict zones
However, let's not forget the approach that “everyone becomes rich with the poor’s money.” It wouldn't be wrong to say that the masses are deliberately and willingly left poor.
People are kept struggling to meet their needs so that they won’t raise their heads. The phrase “What is prosperity when there is an existential threat?” unfortunately has been utilised by leaders for thousands of years.
Education
The issue of education is also one of the critical areas affected by wars. Education shapes individuals’ futures and fosters social development. Wars cause millions of children to drop out of their education.
Today, approximately 260 million children worldwide are out of the educational system. In a world without wars, this number could be reduced by about 50%. As a result, more children could receive an education and look to the future with more hope.
Cultural Developments
Finally, we must not overlook the importance of cultural developments. Wars destroy not only human life but also cultural heritage. According to UNESCO data, the number of historical artefacts lost during wars is quite high.
A world without wars would allow for increased cultural interactions and richer gatherings of different civilisations. In an environment where different cultures come together, artistic creativity and freedom of expression could show significant development.
A world without wars could lead to a significant improvement in issues such as economic prosperity, technological development, hunger, and poverty - Emre Alkin
In conclusion, a world without wars could lead to a significant improvement in issues such as economic prosperity, technological development, hunger, and poverty.
The increase in the quality of life for individuals, societal peace, and strengthened international cooperation could all be possible in such an era.
After evaluating all this, the words of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, who is the architect of the only war won against imperialism in the world, gain even more meaning: “If it is not necessary for homeland defence, every war is a crime.”
By saying “Peace at Home, Peace in the World,” I bow in respect before his blessed memory, holding onto the understanding of the difficult duty he entrusted to us.
