Graphic display seeks to show cost of conflict

Peace and conflict studies masters student Kyle Matthews with some of the crosses at the Otago...
Peace and conflict studies masters student Kyle Matthews with some of the crosses at the Otago Museum Reserve which represent the number of people killed in Afghanistan during the war on terror. Photo: Peter McIntosh.

Why write down a number when a picture can give better perspective?

That was the idea behind a group of University of Otago peace and conflict studies masters students’ attempt to show what the war on terror has cost humanity.

"We’ve got one cross on its own which represents the 3000 people who died in 9/11, and another 55 crosses next to it which show the estimated 165,000 who have died in Afghanistan during the war on terror," masters student Kyle Matthews said.

"Each cross represents 3000 deaths. We are challenging the idea that you can respond to violence with violence. We think it just creates more violence."

Why write down a number when a picture can give better perspective?

He said the graphic display appeared to change the perspectives of many people passing through the reserve yesterday, prompting them to consider whether or not the war on terror had been worth the price.

"Has it been effective? Who are the real bringers of terror?"

The group encouraged passers-by to consider alternatives to war.

"Now is the time to change the story and seek non-violent resolutions."

john.lewis@odt.co.nz

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