Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Rome (Fides Service) - Today more than one billion people in the world live in situations of war, terrorism, torture or experience various other forms of violence, which leave “invisible scars” such as mental depression and psychological trauma.
The figure gave the name to the “One Billion Project”, and renders the scope of this phenomenon and the initiative for people in countries where war is over and rebuilding has started.
The project presented in Rome is promoted by Caritas Rome, Harvard University in Boston, The Superior Institute of Health and the Assunzione Higher Institute of Studies and has the support of many public institutions.
The project started three years ago will culminate with an International Congress in Rome 3 and 4 December. Health Ministers from about 50 countries including Afghanistan, Angola, Burundi, Cambodia, Vietnam, Congo, Guatemala, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Uganda will sign an 'Action plan', to treat invisible scars.
The One Billion Project aims to increase awareness of governments and start development plans and protocols of actuation in various countries. Already in 1980 the World Health Organisation recognised the existence of post trauma depression requiring counselling and medical assistance. (AP) (8/11/2004 Agenzia Fides; Righe:22; Parole:243)
