Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
La Paz (Agenzia Fides) – The Episcopal Conference of Bolivia has launched a new appeal to the areas in contention for the case concerning ITNPIS (Indigenous Territory National Park Isiboro Secure), calling for a sincere and constructive dialogue. Indigenous people are in fact protesting in a march directed towards La Paz to defend the ITNPIS, their habitat, threatened by the construction of a highway approved by the authorities. Both their positions and the government’s have hardened, refusing dialogue, and some social sectors are contrary to the march and have tried to block it near Yucumo (see Fides 26/08/2011, 30/08/2011, 14/09/2011).
"The Bolivian Episcopal Conference, in the context of its pastoral mission and driven by the worsening of the problem in past days, once again calls on the authorities and the sectors concerned in order to avoid any confrontation and violence, which is far from resolving the conflict, the divisions and resentments between brothers worsens, with unpredictable consequences that we might all regret: "This is what the text of the declaration presented to the press, of which a copy was sent to Fides says.
"Encouraging them to present and defend their legitimate interests on the path of dialogue rather than with force, we invite the leaders of the settlers’ organizations and inter-cultural organizations to recognize the freedom of expression of their indigenous brothers, with whom they share the same anxieties and hopes. In addition, we remind all that, according to Christian principles and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, it is a criminal act to prevent any humanitarian aid to reach their destination. We urge the national authorities to take responsibility for these basic human rights which must be respected and guaranteed" continued the Bishops’ statement.
The Bishops’ appeal is loud and clear: "We urge parties concerned to resume the path of genuine and constructive dialogue, based on a real will of the parties, the search for truth, mutual listening skills and a sincere disposition to compromise their positions before the priority of the good of all". The declaration was signed by Mgr. Oscar Aparicio, Auxiliary Bishop of La Paz and Secretary of the Episcopal Conference on 19 September. (CE) (Agenzia Fides 20/09/2011)
