Peace Prize

Press, 6 October 1988, Page 14

Peace Prize

Sir, —The United Nations was set up in June, 1945, “to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime has brought untold sorrow to mankind” according to the U.N. Charter. One of the purposes was “to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security, and to ensure ... that armed force shall not be used, save in the common interest ...” However, the U.N. has not been allowed to function as intended. Since 1945 there have been more than 125 wars, with 25 million dead and enormous sorrow, suffering and devastation. The award of the Nobel Peace Prize to U.N. peacekeeping forces was a great decision as it will emphasise the importance of the U.N.’s most important role, and encourage member States to follow the charter in solving disputes rather than resort to arms. The future of the world depends on making the U.N. work. New Zealand has always been a strong supporter and participant in U.N. peacekeeping operations. — Yours, etc., LARRY ROSS, Secretary, N.Z. Nuclear-free Peacemaking Association. October 2, 1988.

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