Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
11 December 2023 | 13:30 CAT
2-min read

Picture: Instagram/ Violette Browne

On December 9, 2023, more than 700 scientists adopted the International Convention Against War and Destructive Use of Science, urging for an immediate ceasefire. The scientists, from diverse disciplines worldwide, have come together to address the ongoing war on Gaza, condemning Israel’s occupation and apartheid policies.

Radio Islam International hosted Dr Natalya Dinat, a medical doctor and representative of Science for the People in South Africa, to discuss the urgent situation. Dr Dinat emphasised the importance of scientists advocating for peace and raised concerns about the misuse of scientific knowledge in destructive conflicts.

The convention, originating from an appeal in October 2023, gathered momentum with over 1 100 scientists registering and 500 attending the adoption. The convention has evolved into an international union of scientists against war and destructive use of science, aiming to support scientists in pressuring their institutions to adopt ethical standards and enforce academic and grant-based boycotts of Israeli institutions.

The increasing weaponisation of science and technology as highlighted by Professor Sumitra Banerjee was brough to the fore. Dr Dinat underscored the need for the scientific community to balance technological advances with ethical considerations. She explained that the campaign aims to ensure that scientific knowledge is used for the progress of humanity rather than destructive purposes.

“Financial support for science for the good of humanity and science for the good of the planet is dwindling in many, many countries. For example, in medicine…much money is put into diseases of the West and the global north, and very little into malaria, TB and HIV. And similarly, a lot of money has been put into developing the worst and most barbaric kind of weaponry. Profit seems to be the driving factor because nobody wins in a war… The only people to win in a war are the shareholders of military and armament companies,” Dr Dinat said.

Addressing the scale of destruction in Gaza, Dr Dinat provided insights into the humanitarian crisis, describing the horrific conditions faced by the people. Urgent calls were made for an immediate ceasefire and the delivery of humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering of the Gazan population.

The convention’s evolution from a letter of support to actionable initiatives reflects a shift towards concrete measures. Dr Dinat urged communities worldwide to unite in impactful actions such as demonstrations and boycotts, moving beyond symbolic gestures to actively support the people of Gaza.

The initiative, originally initiated by Breakthrough Science in India, faced challenges from authorities. The organising committee, representing diverse voices from around the globe, including the USA, Jewish Voices for Peace, and South Africa, showcased a united front against the unfolding genocide.

The global scientific community, acknowledging its responsibility in the face of the crisis, is now mobilising for collective and tangible action. The convention marks a turning point as scientists pledge to use their influence to address the immediate needs of Gaza and work towards a just and lasting resolution to the conflict.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Muallimah Annisa Essack.