The "fruits" of war

With the Russian invasion of Ukraine, war resurfaced forcefully in the heart of Europe and changed our way of thinking. The "never again war" that had echoed with the birth of the United Nations and that had inspired the West lost its force. We deluded ourselves into thinking we were immune to conflict, forgetting the often-overlooked wars of the rest of the world. Then it was our turn, and everything became more evident. What once seemed forever gone returns, and today, talking about war is no longer taboo. Just listen to the statements of ministers from various European and world governments or read the job advertisements of many industries to understand that the atmosphere has changed.
Eighty years after the end of the Second World War, are we still capable of recognizing the fruits of war?
Or have the passage of time and conflicts too distant from us diluted the effects and consequences of a conflict?

In this issue, we will attempt to provide some answers.
Introduced by Roberto Cristaudo's snapshot and reflection, we want to take a closer look at conflict through the lucid analysis of Pierluigi Conzo, professor of Economics at the University of Turin, who shows us the high price of war.
The Bishop of Homs, Father Jacques Mourad, allows us to reflect on the heavy legacy of the Syrian civil war and the important role of Christians in a devastated land.
And again, thanks to Alberto Chiara, we will learn how terrible wounds can give rise to signs of hope and possible reconciliation.
Truly, the small can do great things and show the way.
Finally, Monica Canalis offers a vision of politics as an antidote to war if it is capable of working for the common good, composing and mediating between different opinions, and moving beyond polarization and the demonization of the adversary.

By the NP editorial staff
Focus
NP December 2025