Equitable distribution of resources could bring peace - Pratt

Accra, Sept 21, GNA - Mr Kwesi Pratt, Editor of the Insight, said on Saturday that scarcity and unequal distribution of the world's resources was the cause of civil strife in Africa and the world. Mr Pratt was speaking at a forum organised by the United Nations Humanitarian Refugee Centre as part of activities marking International Day of Peace, which falls on September 21 each year.

The forum, which was also to highlight the contribution of refugees to their host countries called on world leaders to work towards the removal of poverty and suffering.

It was on the theme, "Displaced Intellectuals in the Sub-Region".

He said peace is a perquisite for development, adding that, until countries ensure equitable distribution of wealth they would continue to suffer from wars and host refugees.

Mr Pratt said the woes of Africa could be traced to neo-colonialism and called on displaced intellectuals to speak out, identify problems and work for solutions.

He urged the developed countries to remove farm subsidies and save Africa from unfair trade.

Mr Allison Hughes, a refugee and Lecturer at the University of Ghana, Legon, called on the government to employ qualified refugees as a solution to the brain drain.

Mr Thomas Albrecht, UNHCR Representative, said world peace is central to the UN, adding that, under the UN Charter member states have agreed to settle disputes by peaceful means and to refrain from threatening or using force against other states.

He commended the UN for its efforts in ensuring peace especially in Liberia.

Mr Albrecht said the 1951 UN Convention relating to the status of refugees highlights that there should be way for a refugee to work in a host country.

He said the UNHCR is working with the government, NGOs, Churches and other organisations to improve the lives of refugees.