The Cost of Armies: A Price Too High?
There are more than a hundred countries in the world, and each has its own army. These armies are composed of the strongest individuals, equipped with the latest weaponry. Every nation aspires to have one of the most powerful military forces, constantly investing in defense and warfare technology.
As a result, many countries allocate a staggering 20% to 30% of their GDP to maintain their armed forces. In war-torn and terrorism-affected regions, military expenditures often exceed even this range. If we were to calculate the total cost of maintaining all the armies worldwide, the sum would reach into the hundreds of billions, if not more.
Now, imagine if even a fraction of this immense wealth were redirected towards eradicating hunger, poverty, and homelessness. It would be more than enough to provide food, clothing, and shelter to every needy person on the planet. No one would have to suffer or perish due to a lack of basic necessities. However, our deep-seated hatred, distrust, and relentless competition prevent this vision from becoming a reality. Instead of working towards a united and prosperous world, we remain engrossed in developing weapons of mass destruction—capable of obliterating the Earth multiple times over. We strive to outdo one another in power and dominance, rather than focusing on making the world a better place for all.
To be fair, armies have contributed significantly to society—providing aid during natural disasters, safeguarding national security, and maintaining order. However, there is still ample room to reduce excessive military spending without compromising security. If nations collectively took even a small step in this direction, we could create a world that is safer, more peaceful, and far more beautiful for everyone.
It is time we ask ourselves: Are we truly investing in a better future, or are we merely fueling a cycle of destruction? The choice is ours.
