WAR often jeopardises human dignity as it can result in widespread suffering, loss of life, displacement and erodes basic rights.
Efforts to minimise the impact on civilians, uphold international humanitarian law and promote peaceful resolutions are crucial in preserving human dignity amid the challenges of conflict.
The war that we witnessed today and the killing of thousands of lives - mainly of innocent children, women and men in Gaza - are perfect examples of how human dignity gets violated and destroyed.
Calls for ceasefire have fallen on deaf ears as if the lives of the innocent and their dignity as human beings have meant nothing to the aggressors. Hence, intense efforts to uphold human dignity for peace have become more important now than ever.
The concept of human dignity highlights the importance to recognise that human beings possess a special value intrinsic to their humanity. Human dignity is the inherent and equal worth of every individual, irrespective of their background, abilities or circumstances.
It encompasses the idea that all humans are entitled to fundamental rights and should be treated with respect, fairness and compassion. Upholding human dignity is a cornerstone of ethical and moral consideration in various aspects of life including law, politics and social interactions.
In addition, no religion teaches or encourages its followers to cause degradation, dehumanisation or the destruction of others. Therefore, a proper understanding of one's religious teachings and the embracing of the moral and ethical values of religion should be the main agenda for religious followers who love peace.
In Islam, the preservation of human dignity is emphasised as a fundamental principle. Karamah al-insan or human dignity is embodied in the two central sources of the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
The Quran underscores the inherent worth of every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances. Islamic teachings that promote justice, compassion and respect for human rights contribute to upholding human dignity in the Islamic framework.
Allah the Almighty says in the holy Quran: "And We have certainly honoured the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference" (Al-Isra, verse 70).
Islam acknowledges the diversity of culture, ethnicities and race. This diversity should not be allowed to become the point of conflict or disharmony, nor is it an excuse for ill-treatment, injustice nor humiliation of other human beings.
In contrast, diversity of the human kind in the form of ethnicities, colour and races are manifestation of the greatness and wisdom of the Creator within a framework of coexistence, cooperation, and integration.
It is stated in the Quran: And one of His signs is the creation of heaven and Earth, and the diversity of our languages and colours. Surely in this are signs for those of "sound" knowledge (Al Ruum, verse 22).
And in another verse of the Quran: "O people, indeed. We created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes so that you may know one another. Indeed, the most honourable of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you" (Al-Hujurat, verse 13).
Human dignity is a key principle that enhances one's perception of himself as a treasured creation. At the core of human dignity in Islam are the principles of Ihsan (to do good), Rahmah (compassion), Al-Adl (justice) and Wasatiyyah (moderation).
Islam vehemently rejects any form of discrimination, fanaticism, extremism, torture, insults and humiliation. This is due to the fact that these actions bring about injustice and adversities towards mankind and reduce human dignity.
In actuality, Islam promotes honour, respect, friendship, acceptance, love and tolerance as noble values in human relations. Upholding human dignity is integral in ensuring peace and harmony in the world today. Peace and harmony are among the fundamental prerequisites to progress, development and well-being of society.
No society can move forward as one if elements of peace and harmony are absent. For countries that aim to become great and successful, it is a must, as a matter of necessity, to tread along the path of peace.
Peace is only achievable when we learn to respect the rights of others, accept the differences and appreciate other people's self-worth. Promoting peace and harmony through upholding human dignity is the first crucial step towards the greater agenda of peaceful coexistence and unity in the world today.
* The writer is a fellow at the Centre for the Study of Shariah, Law and Politics, Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM)