CRC Calls on Canadian Government for Reconciliation in Afghanistan

In a letter to the Canadian prime minister, the Christian Reformed Church’s Committee for Contact with the Government (CCG) is asking that Canada make reconciliation and development a top priority in Afghanistan.

In 30 years of conflict in Afghanistan there has been destruction of lives and infrastructure, and many have tasted the bitterness of oppression.

“Justice, reconciliation and reconstruction are essential to a lasting peace,” says Mike Hogeterp, research coordinator for CCG. “Canada’s mission to Afghanistan–a controversial and important part of our international responsibility–is being evaluated by many today. These discussions can be a helpful way for Canadians, both governments and citizens, to focus on the call to build peace alongside our neighbours in Afghanistan.”

In the letter to Prime Minister Stephen Harper, the CCG has profiled the Christian Reformed Church’s work on peace and war, with specific reference to the report approved by Synod 2006.

In reflecting on synod’s call to peace, CCG is asking the Canadian government to: 
•    Work with Afghans to implement the Action Plan for Peace, Justice and Reconciliation.  This strategy, developed with Afghan civil society, is a practical echo of God’s call to peace.
•    Review Canada’s strategy to ensure that enough attention is given to diplomacy and development along with military security efforts.  A balanced approach to each of these can help efforts to build lasting peace with justice in Afghanistan.

Read the letter (PDF).

“The CRC Synod has urged our active participation in building cultures of peace everywhere,” Hogeterp says.  “In that spirit let’s work and pray for peace in Afghanistan.”

CCG is part of the Christian Reformed Church’s Canadian Ministries. Its work proceeds from commitments to biblical, theological and confessional reflection, careful and relevant research, and constructive engagements with governments.