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18. Jul 08 - 20. Jul 08
The Responsibility to Protect and Christian NonviolenceAmmerdown Centre, Bath, England Church and Peace Britain and Ireland Regional Conference 2008
18 - 20 July 2008 l Ammerdown Centre, Bath, England
What is the responsibility of the international community when a state is unable or unwilling to protect its own people? Should armed force be used? Must Christians committed to nonviolence compromise on their pacifism stance when innocent lives hang in the balance?
In 2001, the United Nations (UN) determined that the international community must bear the responsibility to protect innocent citizens at risk of genocide when sovereign states fail to do so, and that this may necessitate armed intervention.
At its 9th Assembly the World Council of Churches (WCC) approved a resolution affirming what has become known as R2P - the Responsibility to Protect. Though the WCC statement assigns first priority to the prevention of genocidal conflict situations, it does not rule out protective measures using lethal force as a last resort.
For Christian pacifists who oppose the use of violence, this is a serious dilemma. Should peace church adherents support R2P on the grounds that armed intervention, while always destructive, may sometimes be required to protect human life? Is there a way to promote a nonviolent understanding of R2P? What form(s) could a responsible solidarity take that remains faithful to the Gospel call of nonviolence?
Church and Peace Britain & Ireland aims to continue ecumenical debate on R2P at its 2008 regional conference which will be held within the framework of the London Mennonite Theology Forum. Former C&P member the Ammerdown Retreat Centre will host the conference.
Speakers include:
Fee, including VAT, accommodation and meals: £110 (shared room); £125 (single room).
Contact for bookings: Janelle Thiessen, +44(0)2083408775
For more information: Vic Thiessen
Registration Deadline: 31 May, 2008
Download the registration form (Word, 30 Kb) |