INTERNATIONAL TRADE: A TOOL FOR PROMOTING PEACE AMONG NATIONS OF THE WORLD

Abstract

Economic gain, territorial gain, quest for power amongst others have been the causes of conflict between one country and another; and this has led to nationalism where smaller countries fight for freedom from external control. On the process of belligerent for autonomy, conflict usually occurs between countries, hence, the need for peace-building among them which international trade has been a vehicle through which peace can be attained. However, due to the fact that every country of the world is naturally endowed with one natural resources or another which makes them unique among others; this uniqueness triggers them into production of goods and services which enable them have comparative advantage and as a result, they produce above what they need and also need what they cannot produce. This situation has brought about different countries exchanging goods and services as a means of providing essential services to its citizens. Consequent upon this, international trade is and has been a means through which countries interact and associate and thus promotes peace among them. This study discussed the concept of international trade, reasons why nations trade beyond border, the impact of international trade on economic growth and development, the benefit of international trade, international trade and peace, strategies for peace building through trade and the underlying theories of conflict prevention like the Dell Theory amongst others. The study recommends that government of countries should make policies that will promote trade with other countries, Furthermore, export subsidies should be encouraged while import restriction should be lifted as a means of promoting peace through trade.