Churches cautious on new Pacific initiative INSTITUTIONS must ensure they remain relevant and address the needs of their people, says the Pacific Conference of Churches after the end of the Pacific Island Development Forum. The forum – attended by a number of regional leaders, civil society and the media – was welcomed by PCC General Secretary as a move towards inclusivity. “From the perspective of the church and faith-based organisations, we have a huge constituency and network which can be used for development, advocacy, education and attitudinal change,” Rev Pihaatae said. “The PIDF move to engage with faith leaders, the media and other institutions which can influence change is positive and we would like to see other regional organizations take similar approaches.” But he was quick to warn against institutions paying lip service to development in the Pacific. “Leaders must not gather, talk about important issues and then walk away without putting these points into actions which make positive changes to the region and the people,” Rev Pihaatae said. “Matters such as climate change, extractive industries, fisheries, gender-based violence, poverty and self-determination must be addressed and the voices of our people must be heard.” He said if institutions – including churches and governments – wished to remain relevant, they must address the needs of the people with real, sustainable initiatives which promote sustainable livelihoods and the environment. Rev Pihaatae said Pacific leaders must attempt to build economies and governance systems which took into account their size as well as the richness of their traditions and history. He said the capitalist economies of the developing world were not necessarily the answer to creating a vibrant Pacific economy which provided employment and income. “Our leaders must be willing to look within for solutions,” Rev Pihaatae said. “This may mean shutting out the larger economies – Australia, New Zealand, China, Japan, the United States – and working as a cohesive regional unit. “The churches stand ready to help to ensure that our people make the most of their land and sea resources.” For further details: Reverend Francois Pihaatae, 4 Thurston Street, Suva, Fiji T 679-3311277 Or Netani Rika, PCC Communications, 4 Thurston Street, Suva, Fiji T 679-3311277 M 679-9990439 e [email protected] or netrika66@gmail Skype: JournoFJ
Posted on: Wed, 07 Aug 2013 05:00:48 +0000
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