International conflicts can be resolved without war through the application of international law and by a consumer boycott. The people must act independently of their governments. The Internet makes this possible. This message explains how.

International Courts
There are a number of international courts designed to settle disputes between nations. One of them is the International Court of Justice (a.k.a. the World Court) in Holland, a part of the United Nations. It can hear cases about violations of international law when they are brought to it by nations. It has 15 judges from 15 countries. The judge from the US is Thomas Buergenthal, a specialist in international law and human rights. When a nation’s case is being heard, it can appoint an additional judge to make sure its side is fairly deliberated. But there is a major defect. Nations can refuse to allow their actions to be heard and the court has no power to enforce its decisions. However decisions are published on the Internet so when nations ignore them the people can enforce them through an economic boycott.

Boycotts do work
Consumer boycotts have been effective in the past. Recall the boycott of Nestle in the 1970s for its promotion of infant formula as a substitute for breast milk. Also recall the boycotts of table grapes and lettuce, led by the United Farm Workers, which resulted in protective legislation for the workers. These boycotts were successful at a time when there was no Internet. If they were called today they would spread around the world much more quickly.

A made-up example
Suppose that country ABC brings a charge that country XYZ is sending armed gangs into it that burn villages, rape the women and kill the men. The court hears testimony that it is true. XYZ’s defense is that 50 years ago, gangs from ABC did that to them and they are now taking revenge. The World Court might rule that the people now living in ABC were not the ones responsible for past atrocities; that XYZ should live in peace with its neighbors. This is reported on the Internet. Suppose that people, living in these areas report that the real reason for the terrorist attacks is that ABC has valuable mineral resources and a group of foreign investors support the government of XYZ in order to gain control of ABC’s riches. The support comes through international banks and businesses with branches in XYZ. Governments express concern yet do nothing. Peace groups and religious organizations are outraged. The people act through their organizations by ordering a boycott of these banks and businesses. Many people withdraw deposits. Consumers stop buying. Investors demand changes to the Boards of Directors. The economy of XYZ suffers a hit and its people change governments. An economic boycott restores peace without war. This is now possible because communication on the Internet is worldwide and cannot be blocked.

What you can do
If you belong to a peace organization or read your church newsletter you will learn how major organizations are reacting to instances of alleged aggression. If a boycott is called you will learn of it and you can decide whether to participate. All you have to do now is to send copies of this message or its web address, end-war2.blogspot.com, to all people on your correspondence list. The Internet will do the rest. You can email me if you wish to criticize this plan or have a better one.