Why can’t every country get along with each other? It comes down to resources, inequality and perception

Why Can’t Every Country Get Along?

Countries often aim for peace and prosperity for their people, yet conflicts arise even among those with similar values and goals. Cultural differences sometimes fuel competition, as seen between China and the United States, but even nations sharing cultures or values find reasons to clash.

Political science research into conflict-prone areas reveals three main causes behind international tensions:

Scarcity

Resources like food, oil, water, and land are limited, forcing countries to compete for what is necessary to ensure their security. For example, the Nile River provides water for over 300 million people across 11 African countries, illustrating how shared resources can become points of contention.

Uneven Distribution

Resources are not spread evenly, leading to inequality between nations. This imbalance often makes some countries more vulnerable and others more powerful, increasing the likelihood of rivalry or conflict.

Perception

How countries view one another can escalate tensions. Misunderstandings, mistrust, or the desire to maintain influence can drive nations apart even when they share common interests.

“Scarcity, uneven distribution, and perception are central to understanding why countries compete or go to war.”

Summary

Global conflicts often stem from limited resources, unequal access, and how nations perceive each other, which together shape their interactions and challenges.

The Conversation — 2025-11-04