Navigation
Content
Search
Accompanying churches in situations of conflict

Religious symbols and idioms are sometimes used to promote political interests, causing tensions and conflicts within communities where people of different religions have to live together. Christian communities are sometimes caught in the middle of such conflicts. Religious intolerance has a negative effect on today's increasingly pluralistic and interdependent societies.

This project accompanies churches faced with religious intolerance, discrimination and conflict, and advocates for inter-religious cooperation, human dignity, sustainable values and just relationships. It emphasizes those aspects in all religions that promote harmony among communities, that help people to live their individual faith with integrity while living together in mutual respect and mutual acceptance of each other's faiths.

In response to requests from member churches and national councils of churches, the project helps prepare communities in two countries where religions have been used to fuel conflict to prevent and deal with such conflicts.

It will research and evaluate situations of religious intolerance, discrimination and conflict, organize visits, training, consultations, capacity-building and engagement with those of different faiths involved in such situations, and engage in advocacy work on behalf of those affected. A fund will be made available in concrete situations to assist individuals and groups at risk (i.e., legal assistance).

Related news

  • 25.05.12

    Christian and Muslim leaders visit Nigeria

    An inter-religious delegation of senior Muslim and Christian leaders has begun a fact-finding visit to Nigeria on 22 May, where in recent months an increase in violence has threatened relations...

  • 7.05.12

    Implementing PEAC initiatives in Colombia

    To support the Colombian communities in Montes de María and San Onofre, faced with armed conflict and displacements, the national reference group of the Programme of Ecumenical Accompaniment in...

  • 3.05.12

    Towards ecumenical accompaniment in Colombia

    The concept of accompaniment, including spiritual and pastoral accompaniment, is the main inspiration of the churches involved in the Programme of Ecumenical Accompaniment in Colombia (PEAC), an...

All news on this topic


Related events

  • 28.05.12 - 03.06.12 World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel Worldwide

    During the week of 28 May to 3 June, church organizations, congregations, and people of faith are encouraged to make a common witness by participating in worship services, educational events, and...

All events on this topic


Related documents

Reflections on international and global multi-faith initiatives

An aide-mémoire, by WCC programme executive responsible for interreligious relations and dialogue, Rev. Dr Hans Ucko

Related publications