Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bogota (Fides Service) - “If you desire Peace, work for Justice” is the slogan of the 3rd National Reconciliation Congress organised by Office for Social Pastoral of the Conference Catholic Bishops. The aim of the congress, to be held in Bogota 23-25 May, is continue reflection and analysis of the situation, share experience and identify ways of promoting peace and respect for human rights in order to achieve national reconciliation and peace .
The meeting which will be held at the Compensar Centre in Bogota is expected to bring together more than 800 participants: representatives of the Church in Colombia and of other religious confessions, representatives of the government, national and international human rights organisations, diplomats committed to protecting life and reconciliation between the communities victims of the situation of armed conflict .
The main aim of the congress is to examine the justice system and the application of justice to promote respect for human rights, meet present-day challenges and promote reconciliation and peace in the country. The themes for reflection include: process of demobilisation of AUC (Colombian United Self-defence groups); proposed Bill on truth, justice and reparation; the right to land and the impoverishment of the people. Besides opening common spaces to encourage the integration of individuals and institutions in search of concrete alternatives to respond to present day challenges, the Congress will also be an opportunity to exchange experience and encourage meetings with the victims.
The thematic nuclei of the conferences which will be followed by discussion in work groups will focus on the following subjects: Wagers and challenges in the application of justice in Colombia; Justice and economic, social and cultural rights; Truth, justice and reparation; Justice and land rights. For more information in Spanish apply to: snpscol@cable.net.co (R.Z.) (Agenzia Fides 6/5/2005, righe 23, parole 302)
