WE WANT A WORLD IN PEACE !

300 million died during the wars in 20th century. However, we are observing that mankind have entered 21st century without any lessons learnt from murders of millions, blood and tears. The world military spending has reached a billion dollars although the cold war era is over. The collection of arms and ammunitions at mankind’s disposal is capable of murdering 2.5 million people. The situation is absolutely insane while 45% of population struggles for survival with incomes below the line of poverty.

The world’s dominant nations continue their attempts to rearrange and shape the world map in line with their own rules and self-interests.

The whole world is aware that the probable war in Iraq will serve to change the balance of power in the region and to place oil resources under the US control, without considering its detrimental effects on the world and mankind.

Despite the UN arm inspectors’ reports and all peace initiatives, the imposing attitude taken by the US has no righteous justification and moreover, completely disregards principles set forth by international law. The US position constitutes a major blow to long-term world peace. This probable war for controlling oil resources will have major negative impacts not only in the short run but also in the long run.

The mankind has the power and wisdom within to fight the threats such as aggregation, terror and war.

The Rotary, established in 1905 and one the oldest humanitarian service organizations, is formally described as

follows.

“ Rotary is an organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world.”

February is chosen as the “ month of understanding and peace“ by the Rotary International members. During February, all Rotary Clubs are encouraged to implement humaniterian service projects aiming at advancement of goodwill and mutual understanding as their central theme. On February 23rd, which is also anniversary of the Rotary, these projects are announced to the public. The Rotary believes that peace, goowill, international understanding and cooperation can only be achieved by international efforts of peaceful, determined, impartial and unpredujiced entities. The Rotary is one these entities.

As an evidence of the Rotary’s dedication to peace, 49 Rotary members helped drafting United Nations Contract. Furthermore, the concept of UNESCO emerged during the Rotary-sponsored educators conference gathered in London following 2nd World War to discuss education and cultural exchange in the wake of war.

Mr. Bhichai Rattakul, who is the head of the Rotary International, and 2440 district guvernor Mr. Fahrettin Macit announced 2002-2003 period’s central theme as “SOW THE SEEDS OF LOVE”. This theme shows us high priority the Rotary places on love of mankind and peace.

Human Rights Declaration states that, no government, group or person has the right to enslave, imprison, torture or limit the freedom of any individual.