Peace makes it possible for countries and societies to develop. If there is a war going on, it does not only mean suffering for the people - it is also bad both for the country's economy and for the environment. Where there is war, it is more difficult for the people to get out of poverty. If everyone is equal before the law and has equal rights, the chance for peace in society increases.
Peaceful societies and freedom from violence are both a goal and a means to sustainable development. Unfortunately, the world is far from there. Every year, about 90,000 people die as a result of alcohol and drug-related violence. Stricter alcohol policies are an effective tool for us to achieve the goal of peaceful and inclusive societies.
But the alcohol industry puts a lot of effort and a lot of money into making the laws as lenient as possible. There are several examples where the industry is suspected of having bribed politicians to vote against bills to regulate the market. All forces are needed to bring about a peaceful future. In the longer term, we must work to spread knowledge, challenge norms that limit people's freedoms and rights. We in the IOGT-NTO movement want to contribute with the knowledge we have.
Children who do not have an insecure upbringing, perhaps with abuse or violence in the family, have a much greater risk of getting into trouble themselves when he or she grows up. Therefore, it is important that all children have a safe adult as support. This is something that the IOGT-NTO movement works hard for.
Join a group of friends and read about your civil rights and obligations. If you feel that your rights are being violated, say so!
Exercise your right to vote. Together we can demand peaceful, democratic and just societies where everyone is respected.
Does your school treat everyone fairly? If not, highlight the problems that exist and what needs to be improved with classmates, teachers or the principal.
Learn more and find out what you can do to # Become Aware of www.globalamålen.se
Märta Zetterfalk is 10 years old and a member of Junis Tussilago Östersund.
I have painted a picture of the earth that is happy that there is peace. Peace for me means that everyone is kind to each other and that you feel safe.
