Document
14 January 2008
The WCC shares the joy of the liberation of Clara Rojas and Consuelo González. This is a sign of hope that shows that a negotiated solution to the situation in Colombia is possible.
The WCC congratulates President Hugo Chavez for his efforts in the mediation process as well as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) for his collaboration in the operation and calls the government of Colombia and the FARC to look for peaceful ways of ending the long lasting violent conflict.
As stated in numerous occasions the WCC shares strongly the conviction that a negotiated solution is imperative so as to overcome the violence that has ravaged the country for decades and to open the way to a democratic and peaceful resolution of the current stalemate. The civil society has suffered the most as has been caught in the middle of the conflict with hundred of civilians victimized by the ongoing military operations.
A humanitarian agreement is still possible and urgent to put an end to the hostage situation. The WCC continues to praise the efforts made by the churches in Colombia and the civil society in general to look for peaceful means to bring justice and reconciliation to the country.
Rev. Elenora Giddings Ivory
Director, Public witness: addressing power and affirming peace
