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| Title: | The Cape Town Declaration: Christian Humanitarianism in Times of Conflict |
| Author | World Vision Peacebuildng & Advocacy Network (PAXnet) |
| Journal Name or Anthology | |
| Publisher: | World Vision International |
| Place of Publication: | Cape Town, South Africa |
| Year of Publication: | 2002 |
Body:
The Cape Town Declaration:
Christian Humanitarianism in Times of Conflict
As a Christian international humanitarian organization working in some 100 countries, we are profoundly concerned with trends in relation to our common human security. These trends have been especially pronounced in the first years of the new millennium. We affirm the need for World Vision to partner with churches worldwide to transmit the Good News of the reconciliation and peace of Christ to a world wracked by violent conflict, poverty and acts of terror. We seek to overcome hostility by modelling non-violence and reconciliation, following the example of Christ. In keeping with Christian tradition, World Vision defines peace not only as the absence of violent conflict, but also as the presence of equity, wholeness and justice.
We therefore submit the following concerns and affirmations as a call to action to the Church and to political leaders.
Speaking to Injustice
We affirm that World Vision's Christian humanitarian mission inevitably has political implications and that silence concerning injustice can itself be a statement or can be understood as acquiescence. World Vision is committed to the concept that people and organisations at every level of society have the right and responsibility to speak out strongly for peace and justice, truth and mercy.
- We reject silence in the face of injustice, knowing that silence is interpreted as the language of affirmation in decisive times. Further, we reject the use of threats and fear designed to silence questions and criticism of political actions and inaction.
The Rule of Law
World Vision has embraced international conventions forged over many decades that codify human rights and affirm the responsibility of people and states to protect those rights. This 'rule of law' must work to create a more just and secure world. Multi-lateral mechanisms provide the best means to achieve sustainable peace and human security. The poor and marginalised are best served when these mechanisms represent the collective will and best instincts of the international community.
- We reject the belief that "might makes right", knowing that unrestrained power corrupts, and recognising that the least powerful people have the right to be heard.
Violent Conflict is not Inevitable
We affirm that the life of Jesus and the testimony of the Scriptures, reflected in the Core Values of World Vision, identify God's persistent and special concern for the oppressed and the marginalized, regardless of their beliefs or ethnicity. World Vision's Christ-centred concern for the poor is recognized and acknowledged by the various cultures and communities of faith among whom we work. In working for peace and justice, World Vision is composed of, and partners with, people representing the civilisations of the world. World Vision witnesses on a daily basis, and always seeks to affirm, positive examples of people living peacefully and working together for common good.
- We reject the conclusion that there must inevitably be a clash of civilisations, knowing that such a belief can be self-fulfilling and therefore contributes to unnecessary conflict between cultures. We urge all who are actively engaged in peacebuilding to do everything within their power to influence their public officials to pursue just and diplomatic solutions to conflicts.
All Persons Bear the Image of God
We affirm that all people are made in the image of God and also carry the brokenness of humanity. No person should be denied the dignity that God accords to all human beings. World Vision accepts the major international political instruments that enshrine human rights, and calls on all states to observe and implement these rights, thereby providing protection and security to all people.
- We reject any attempt to demonise people of any ethnic group, state, religion or culture, knowing that such propaganda is used to dehumanise others, to create enemies between peoples and to create a pretext for war.
Protection of Civilians and Use of Military Force
World Vision never advocates for the use of military force. In rare cases, however, the interposition of armed forces with a mandate to protect civilian populations may be appropriate if all peaceful avenues have been exhausted. Such interventions should protect innocent lives and only be initiated for legitimate humanitarian reasons.
- We reject military action for any reason other than the protection of civilians. Humanitarian objectives must not be used as a false justification for military intervention whose true objectives are political, military or economic in nature.
Loyalty to God's Kingdom
We affirm that followers of Jesus Christ have no higher loyalty than their commitment to God and the values of God's kingdom.
We call on Christians in all vocations, including positions of political leadership, to ensure that their actions are consistent with the values of God's kingdom. Policy and action must consider the good of all humanity, not just the good of one state or group of states. Christian humanitarian organisations must maintain a careful, critical stance in their relationships with governments whose objectives are often driven by national interest and domestic politics, rather than the values that Jesus demands of his followers. |
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