The region we live in is experiencing increasing polarisation, turmoil, and conflict. This unrest is not only present in our neighbouring countries but also involves Western, American, Chinese, and Iranian interests.
The situation has become even more dangerous following the ongoing war in Gaza.
Amidst this chaos, talking about peace may seem like a distant dream, especially when war and conflict dominate the scene.
We see a loss of moral, religious, and human values, not just in Gaza but across other Arab and foreign countries that receive less media attention.
Even major countries are showing double standards, revealing their return to oppressive practices, particularly under the influence of the Zionist lobby.
In the midst of this bloodshed, what could the establishment of the ‘Oman International Institute for Peace Research’ offer?
I believe Oman needs to seriously consider creating such an institute for several important reasons. It would mark a historic shift in Oman’s ongoing efforts to promote peace in the region, encourage dialogue, and avoid military conflicts that have plagued this part of the world, rich in resources and history.
With this institute, Oman would introduce a new culture, elevating its diplomatic and political efforts to a higher level.
It would add a civilisational and scientific dimension to Oman’s soft power in the 21st century, building on the country’s established political philosophy of peace and constructive dialogue.
The institute would provide a platform for discussing rationality, balance, and civilised dialogue, aiming to reduce the flames of wars that continue to ignite new conflicts every day.
This approach aligns with the path set by the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said and is being continued by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.
Oman has always been a beacon of peace, wisdom, and reason in the Arab world, especially during disputes or violent clashes. The Omani government has consistently worked to reduce tensions and has actively participated in mediation efforts across the region, which is often drenched in blood, hostility, and unrest.
The institute would offer a space for exchanging ideas, hosting thinkers, politicians, economists, and security experts from the region. It would transform into a mature, balanced, and independent platform for discussing peace and studying ways to address geopolitical conflicts.
By doing so, it would send insightful messages from Muscat, the city of peace, to the world.
The institute would also focus on publishing reports, research, and analyses in various fields related to peace, contributing to building trust in the region.
If the institute gains support from influential voices, it could become a significant regional and international platform, aligning with Oman’s strong commitment to peace and stability in the region.
It would complement other Omani initiatives, such as the academic chairs established by the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said in prestigious universities around the world, including Harvard University in the United States, the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, and the University of Tokyo in Japan.
Looking at the example of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), there are many organisational and intellectual aspects that Oman can learn from.
However, it is crucial that this centre reflects an Omani philosophy of peace, rooted in our country’s rich legacy of peaceful dealings with global issues and conflicts.
The establishment of the ‘Oman International Institute for Peace Research’ would place Oman in an important position on the international stage. It would add a new beacon to the state’s institutions, fitting for the 21st century.
The institute would also help develop Omani researchers, specialists, and elites in various fields such as diplomacy, academia, security, economy, and military.
Their ideas and visions would contribute to deepening Oman’s peace project and philosophy, which has become a respected approach in the region.
Oman is one of the few countries whose efforts to promote peace and stability are widely accepted and appreciated at both regional and international levels. In these times of war and violence, our region desperately needs every voice that calls for peace, wisdom, reason, and dialogue to bring back some stability and calm.
Translated by Badr Al Dhafari
The original version of this article was published in the print edition of Oman Arabic daily on September 1, 2024.
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