Michigan Senate Resolution Urges Condemnation of Terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir Conflict

Introduction

On Wednesday, Senator Michael Webber of Michigan introduced a resolution urging the state’s congressional delegation and the U.S. government to firmly condemn all terrorism and acts of violence against civilians. The resolution also calls on the governments of India and Pakistan to denounce such acts as both nations seek a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in the Jammu and Kashmir region.

Context of the Conflict

The resolution responds to a recent militant attack on April 22 near Pahalgam, a tourist destination in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir. This attack resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, reportedly targeted due to their religious faith. The incident heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, leading to military engagements and additional civilian casualties. Although a ceasefire was agreed upon on May 10, the situation remains volatile.

Key Points of Senate Resolution 63

1. The attack in Pahalgam has been widely condemned by the government of India, the United Nations Security Council, and the international community as an act of terror against civilians.
2. The government of Pakistan has publicly stated its condemnation of terrorism in all forms.
3. Targeting civilians based on religion violates international principles of religious tolerance and freedom.
4. It is essential to condemn all acts of violence against civilians to promote peace and security.

Emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – The resolution aligns with the goal of promoting peaceful and inclusive societies by condemning terrorism and violence against civilians and encouraging peaceful conflict resolution between India and Pakistan.
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – By addressing violence targeted at individuals based on their religious faith, the resolution supports the reduction of inequalities and discrimination.
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – The call for cooperation between governments and the international community highlights the importance of global partnerships in achieving peace and security.
• SDG 4: Quality Education – Promoting religious tolerance and freedom contributes to inclusive education and awareness, fostering understanding among diverse communities.

Conclusion

Senator Webber emphasized that the resolution is not about taking sides in the India-Pakistan conflict but about standing firmly against terrorism and protecting innocent civilians. The resolution underscores the necessity of international cooperation and adherence to human rights principles to achieve sustainable peace in the Jammu and Kashmir region.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • The article focuses on condemning terrorism and violence against civilians, which relates directly to promoting peaceful and inclusive societies.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • The targeting of civilians based on their faith highlights issues of inequality and discrimination, which SDG 10 aims to reduce.
3. SDG 5: Gender Equality
   • While not explicitly mentioned, violence against civilians often disproportionately affects women and vulnerable groups, linking indirectly to SDG 5.
4. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • The call for international cooperation and condemnation by governments and the UN Security Council reflects the importance of global partnerships.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Target 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.
   • Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
   • Target 16.b: Promote and enforce non-discriminatory laws and policies for sustainable development.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Target 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including discrimination based on religion.
3. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • Target 17.16: Enhance the global partnership for sustainable development, complemented by multi-stakeholder partnerships.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicator for SDG 16.1: Number of victims of intentional homicide per 100,000 population, by sex and age.
2. Indicator for SDG 16.3: Proportion of victims of violence who report their victimization to competent authorities or other officially recognized conflict resolution mechanisms.
3. Indicator for SDG 10.3: Proportion of population reporting having personally felt discriminated against or harassed in the previous 12 months on the basis of religion or belief.
4. Indicator for SDG 17.16: Number of countries reporting progress in multi-stakeholder development effectiveness monitoring frameworks that support the achievement of the sustainable development goals.
5. Implied indicators: Number of terrorist attacks targeting civilians; number of civilian deaths due to conflict; number of official condemnations and peace agreements signed.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: misenategop.com