War/Conflicts

We continue to follow the U.S. involvements in conflict situations in the world though President Obama, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and various diplomats. At times the situations suggest some clarity in a direction for advocacy.
 
After years of prayer and advocacy for a responsible withdrawal from Iraq, a timetable has been set for this to happen in 2010. We are hopeful that the people of Iraq will continue to make progress in their efforts of self-government.

Darfur is being highlighted with the March 4th announcement of the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant for President Bashir of Sudan on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Darfur. For years we have been advocating for a peaceful resolution to the tragic conflict in that area. Please go to http://www.savedarfur.org/content and the UN website @ http://www.un.org/english/ for information detailing the actions for this month.

The JPIC Office commended Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s message to allow humanitarian aid to the troubled area of Gaza.  Various resolutions have been promoted to resolve this situation from peaceful talks, ceasefire agreements to a two-state solution. All are burdened with difficulties.Franciscans International has a specialist in this area Br. Elias Mallon, SA who is currently in the Middle East. For more information visit http://www.franciscansinternational.org/index.php and Churches for the Middle East Peace.

Concerns for Peace for Columbia are being addressed by CRS.  A webcast is planned on Columbia for March 18th. More than 40 years of violent conflict have caused great suffering for millions of people. However, the Columbians themselves are making inspiring efforts to bring about peace in their country. While Sr. Sheila was at the Franciscan Solidarity Experience in Brazil, Br. Omar Fernandez poignantly described the human rights situation in Columbia.