Tariq Mahmood Awan
The protection of life is always an instinctive consideration for a human. Whether humans live alone or collectively, they always protect themselves from threats. This instinctive compulsion is collectively translated among tribes, societies and nations. The concept of self-defence by a state is a fundamental principle of international law that allows a nation to take necessary action to protect its territorial integrity, political independence, and population from armed attack. This right is enshrined in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which states that “nothing in the present Charter shall impair the inherent right of individual or collective self-defence if an armed attack occurs against a Member of the United Nations.” The world has been a cruel place. Humans have been fighting wars for ages now and those with superior weaponry have always been victorious.
There are several justifications for the right of self-defence. One is that it is a necessary means of protecting the fundamental right of all states to exist. States would be vulnerable to aggression and conquest without the ability to defend themselves. Another justification is that it helps to prevent the outbreak of war by deterring potential aggressors. When states know that they will face a strong military response if they attack another state, they are less likely to initiate hostilities. However, the right to self-defence is not without its limitations. Using force in self-defence must be necessary, proportionate, and prompt. It must also be in response to an actual or imminent armed attack, and it cannot be used as a pretext for territorial aggrandizement or other unlawful purposes.
Self-defense is critical for nation-states because it allows them to protect their sovereignty, territorial integrity, and citizens from armed aggression. Without the ability to defend themselves, states would be vulnerable to attack and occupation, and their citizens would be at risk of harm or death. In addition to protecting their physical security, states are responsible for defending their national interests. These interests include economic stability, political autonomy, and cultural identity. Self-defence can help to safeguard these interests by deterring foreign interference and promoting peace.
In the modern world, militaries rely on sophisticated weaponry and defence systems to deter aggression and defend their nations. Superior weaponry can provide a significant advantage in a conflict, and it can also help deter potential aggressors from attacking in the first place. However, the development of superior weaponry systems is a complex and expensive undertaking. It requires significant investment in research and development, as well as the acquisition and maintenance of advanced technologies. Moreover, the rapid pace of technological change means that states must constantly strive to upgrade their weaponry systems in order to stay ahead of their adversaries. The decision of whether or not to develop superior weaponry is a difficult one for policymakers. On the one hand, such systems can provide a vital tool for self-defence and national security. On the other hand, they can also be costly and destabilizing, and they can increase the risk of conflict. Policymakers must carefully weigh the risks and benefits of developing superior weaponry before deciding.
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Presently, most of the Muslim countries are facing internal and external aggression. For example, Pakistan is facing an existential threat from neighbouring India, against whom it has fought three more significant wars. Accordingly, Pakistan developed superior weapons, including nuclear missiles, to deter all types of threats. Therefore, weapons development facilitated defence and ensured peace and power equilibrium. However, this is not the case between Israel and Palestine. Had Palestine and Arab countries developed superior weapons, Israel would have never attacked them so ferociously. Therefore, Muslim countries must invest in sophisticated weapons to establish a balance of power to create an honourable peace. They can work jointly in this regard through OIC.
Investments in sophisticated weaponry and defence systems can have a significant impact on the social fabric of Muslim countries. On the one hand, enhanced defence capabilities provide security and deter aggression, potentially fostering social cohesion and stability. On the other hand, focusing on military power can lead to increased militarization of society, exacerbating tensions and divisions within and between communities. Moreover, allocating significant resources towards defence can divert funds from essential social programs, such as education and healthcare, potentially widening socio-economic disparities and exacerbating social inequalities.
Furthering the argument, developing advanced weaponry and defence systems can reshape the political landscape of Muslim countries. More robust military capabilities can enhance a nation’s international standing and influence, potentially leading to more significant diplomatic clout and regional prominence. However, an overemphasis on military power can also undermine democratic institutions and erode civil liberties, as governments may prioritize security over individual freedoms and political participation. Additionally, arms races between Muslim countries can destabilize regions and heighten the risk of conflict, with potentially detrimental consequences for political stability and governance. Investing in sophisticated defence technologies can have also profound implications for the cultural identity of Muslim countries.
Furthermore, one one hand, military prowess can be perceived as a source of national pride and cultural affirmation, fostering a sense of resilience and self-reliance. On the other hand, an excessive focus on military power can lead to the glorification of violence and the erosion of traditional values that emphasize peace, dialogue, and tolerance. Moreover, the allocation of resources towards defence can hinder cultural development and artistic expression, potentially diminishing the rich cultural heritage of Muslim societies.
Accordingly, Investing in advanced weaponry and defence systems can have both positive and negative economic consequences for Muslim countries. On the one hand, developing a domestic defence industry can stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and foster technological innovation. On the other hand, the diversion of resources from different sectors, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development, can hinder economic diversification and long-term economic prosperity. The arms trade can also fuel corruption and instability, further undermining economic growth and prosperity. However, despite two-way arguments, the principal right of self-defence must remain the priority. Enhancing defence capabilities through sophisticated weaponry and advanced defence systems can strengthen a nation’s ability to deter aggression and defend its territorial integrity. More consequential military power can provide a deterrent against external threats, potentially reducing the likelihood of conflict and safeguarding national security. It can easily be assessed in the case of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Furthermore, defence-related research and development investments can stimulate technological advancements in various fields, such as electronics, materials science, and artificial intelligence. These technological breakthroughs can have spillover effects into civilian applications, improving productivity, enhancing healthcare, and fostering innovation across various sectors. The development of superior weaponry and defence systems can bolster a nation’s sovereignty and autonomy, enabling it to assert its interests and protect its national interests on the international stage. Stronger military capabilities can enhance a nation’s bargaining power in diplomatic negotiations and increase its ability to project power in regional and global affairs. However, an overemphasis on military power can lead to isolation and alienation from the international community, diminishing a nation’s soft power and influence. Moreover, the pursuit of military dominance can undermine efforts to promote cooperation and multilateralism, hindering the resolution of global challenges and the pursuit of sustainable development goals.
Accordingly, the modern nation states do not have other option except to develop sophisticated weaponry if they are part of internal and external conflicts. Therefore, Muslim countries should invest more in developing superior and sophisticated weapons. Although it is not a healthy argument to force the development of sophisticated weaponry, there is no denial of internal and external aggressions. The world has been a cruel place. The powerful people have been terminating the weak people. The existing world order forces the Muslim countries to develop their weaponry and defence technological systems to ensure peace and justice.
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