Development

Toward the 21st Century and Peace

Toward the 21st Century and Peace

Statement to the 1991 meeting of Peace Messenger Organizations

Dagomys, U.S.S.R.—10 June 1991

The United Nations proclaimed 1986 the International Year of Peace. By so doing, it invited governments and peoples to articulate both their fears and their hopes for the future of the planet. In response to this call, the Universal House of Justice, the governing council of the Baha'i­ International Community, issued a statement to the Peoples of the World. "The Promise of World Peace" expresses the Baha'i­ conviction that peace is not only possible but inevitable. The statement describes the spiritual and social ills that are barriers to world peace and indicates, from a Baha'i­ perspective, how they may be eliminated. Since its publication in October 1985, "The Promise of World Peace" has been presented to more than 200 heads of state. It has been translated into 76 languages, and at least two million individuals have received a copy. A wide range of peace activities, centered around this message of hope, led to the designation of the Baha'i­ International Community and four of its national Baha'i­ councils as Peace Messengers.

As our contribution to this important discussion of a shared Peace Agenda for the 1990's, the Baha'i­ International Community and two of its fellow Peace Messengers, the national Baha'i­ councils of Brazil and Belgium, offer for your consideration two themes elaborated in the "Promise of World Peace": first, the need for the people of the world to see themselves as members of one human family and, second, the obligation of governments to come together to hammer out the framework for a permanent peace.

Baha'i­s are optimistic. We see human beings as essentially good and civilization as evolving toward maturity. Selfishness and aggression are not human nature but distortions of the human spirit. Likewise, injustice, prejudice and warfare are seen as characteristics of humanity's adolescence which must precede its long-awaited coming of age. Thus, in the Baha'i­ view, any peace agenda for the '90's must address the destabilizing prejudices and injustices that keep society in chaos. The world can never be at peace with barriers between people such as racism, unequal status of women and men, unrestrained nationalism, lack of universal education, conflict among religions, the inordinate disparity between rich and poor, and lack of an international language. Enduring solutions to these problems will be found only on the basis of spiritual principle.

World order, Baha'i­s believe, can be founded only on an unshakable consciousness of the oneness of mankind, a spiritual truth which all the human sciences confirm.... Recognition of this truth requires abandonment of prejudice-prejudice of every kind-race, class, color, creed, nation, sex, degree of material civilization, everything which enables people to consider themselves superior to others.... It should therefore be universally proclaimed, taught in schools, and constantly asserted in every nation as preparation for the organic change in the structure of society which it implies.

This brings us to our second theme from "The Promise of World Peace": the call to governments to face courageously the urgent need to subordinate national self-interest to the requirements of world order. In the Baha'i­ view, the recognition of the principle of the oneness of humanity "calls for no less than the reconstruction and the demilitarization of the whole civilized world-a world organically unified in all the essential aspects of its life, its political machinery, its spiritual aspiration, its trade and finance, its script and language, and yet infinite in the diversity of the national characteristics of it federated units."

In statements addressed to the rulers of the world over a century ago, Bahá'u'lláh, the Prophet-Founder of the Baha'i­ Faith, first advanced his proposals for the establishment of world peace, founded on the principle of collective security. "The time must come," He asserted, "when the imperative necessity for the holding of a vast, an all-embracing assemblage of men will be universally realized. The rulers and kings of the earth must needs attend it, and, participating in its deliberations, must consider such ways and means as will lay the foundation of the world's Great Peace amongst men."

Concerning the proceedings for this world gathering, `Abdu'l-Bahá, the son of Bahá'u'lláh and authorized interpreter of his teachings, offered these insights: "They must make the Cause of Peace the object of general consultation, and seek by every means in their power to establish a Union of the nations of the world. They must conclude a binding treaty and establish a covenant, the provisions of which shall be sound, inviolable and definite. They must proclaim it to all the world and obtain for it the sanction of all the human race. This supreme and noble undertaking-the real source of the peace and well-being of all the world-should be regarded as sacred by all that dwell on earth. All the forces of humanity must be mobilized to ensure the stability and permanence of this Most Great Covenant. In this all-embracing pact the limits and frontiers of each and every nation should be clearly fixed, the principles underlying the relations of governments towards one another definitely laid down, and all international agreements and obligations ascertained. In like manner the size of the armaments of every government should be strictly limited, for if the preparations for war and the military forces of any nation should be allowed to increase, they will arouse the suspicion of others. The fundamental principle underlying this solemn Pact should be so fixed that if any government later violate any one of its provisions, all the governments on earth should arise to reduce it to utter submission, nay the human race as a whole should resolve, with every power at its disposal, to destroy that government. should this greatest of all remedies be applied to the sick body of the world, it will assuredly recover from its ills and will remain eternally safe and secure."

The holding of this mighty convocation is long overdue. What more fitting way for the United Nations to observe its Fiftieth Anniversary than for it to rise, with the full support of its membership, to the high purposes of such a crowning event?

The source of our optimism is a vision of unity encompassing all of humanity. The experience of the Baha'i­ community may be seen as an example of this enlarging unity. It is a community of some five million people drawn from many nations, cultures, classes and creeds, engaged in a wide range of activities serving the spiritual, social and economic needs of the peoples of many lands. It is a single social organism, representative of the diversity of the human family, conducting its affairs through a system of commonly accepted consultative principles, and cherishing equally all the great outpourings of divine guidance in human history. Its existence is yet another convincing proof of the practicality of its Founder's vision of a united world, another evidence that humanity can live as one global society, equal to whatever challenges its coming of age may entail. If the Baha'i­ experience can contribute in whatever measure to reinforcing hope in the unity of the human race, we are happy to offer it as a model for study.

In closing, we commend "The Promise of World Peace" for your study and urge that you consider particularly these two themes in your deliberations. In the words of Ervin Laszlo, Member of the Club of Rome and Editor in chief of World Encyclopedia of Peace, "The Baha'i­ call for peace comes at a crucial moment in the history of humanity. Peace in the contemporary world is no longer an option but a necessity. All leaders and peoples of the world must come to realize this fact, and achieve the maturity which the Baha'i­ Faith foresees for the coming of age of humanity."

Health and Nutrition

Health and Nutrition

Statement to the Committee of Representatives of Governments and Administrations (CARGA), South Pacific Commission

Noumea, New Caledonia—30 May 1991

The Baha'i­ International Community, on behalf of the Baha'i­ communities of the South Pacific Region, wishes to express its appreciation to the South Pacific Commission for the invitation to attend this meeting of the Committee of Representatives of Governments and Administrations. We are most grateful for this opportunity to share our ongoing interest in the important area of health and nutrition and to bring you up to date on recent health initiatives undertaken by the Baha'i­ International Community.

Baha'i­s believe that health is more than the absence of disease. In addition to the three widely recognized aspects of health-physical, mental and social well-being-the spiritual dimension of health is also important not only to the life of the individual, but to the life of the family and the community as well. Consequently, Baha'i­ communities strive to address the needs of individuals, families, and the community as a whole in their activities. The role of education in the realization of this harmonious balance among all aspects of life cannot be overemphasized, and the education of women is of particular importance in this process.

Women, as the main agents of primary health care, play an essential role in maintaining family and community health. They are the ones who are most aware of sickness and suffering in the community because of their social role as nurturers and care-takers of the young, the old, the sick and the handicapped, and they exert an important influence on health habits in the family. Although it is often recognized that primary health care has to respond to the needs of people, and that women have the most extensive awareness of these needs, their opinions are rarely solicited when health care programs are being formulated.

In order for communities to benefit from the knowledge which women possess, women have to learn to regard themselves as capable human beings with important contributions to make on the basis of their life experience and their accumulated wealth of knowledge. By training them as voluntary Community Health Workers, Baha'i­ health care professionals are making a conscious effort to enable women to organize and share the information they have acquired. A model training program for these volunteers has been developed and is being adapted for use in communities throughout the world. The training workshops encourage the volunteers, many of whom are women, to use their experience to solve real problems drawn from the daily life of the community.

If this participation of women is to develop, it must extend to all levels and all areas of the health care system. Women must become doctors, nurses, community development agents, educators, agricultural extension workers, public health officials, planners, legislators, politicians. At the same time, women and women's organizations at the grass roots must participate in the decisions affecting individual, family, and community health. Special efforts must be made to organize education and vocational and professional training in such a way that more girls and women can take advantage of them.

Investing in primary health care programmes is believed to provide more benefits at the grass root level than investing in highly trained physicians who practice medicine in clinics and hospitals. It is extremely difficult to bring modern medical care to rural populations. Local Baha'i­ communities, however, are part of a network that is able to mobilize resources from outside their local area. For example, in the Philippines, as a result of grass roots initiative, a Baha'i­ medical team is now providing regular services to the remote Mangyan area of Mindoro, a tribal region never before served by physicians. Undaunted by the rugged terrain, Baha'i­s from several communities in the area supported the team's efforts. They created a relay race to carry an ice chest filled with live vaccine 41 kilometers into the interior. As a result, hundreds of Mangyan children were immunized.

Malnutrition is one of the major public health problems in developing countries. It stems from poverty and ignorance. The family must be helped to learn nutrition habits and must be served by better basic health care. The Baha'i­ community health care workers provide basic nutrition education as a part of their .primary health care services. Promoting breast feeding, teaching mothers to make appropriate weaning food utilizing locally available food, and training them to make oral rehydration solutions, form part of the basic nutrition education that is being carried out by the Baha'i­ community health care workers. Malnutrition is often both a result and a cause of social and economic under-development. Therefore nutrition and health care activities should be fully integrated with the activities of other sectors involved in community development.

To support local agriculture, one Baha'i­ community in the Philippines has established a cooperative store, a portion of whose profits support an infant who is cared for by the local governing council. When the local population is actively involved in the formulation and implementation of community improvement activities, local priorities will be based on decisions resulting from a continuous dialogue between the people and the services. In Papua New Guinea, just such a dialogue resulted in a collaboration between the Baha'i­ community and a provincial government to reestablish health services in a remote area.

The Baha'i­ International Community continues to expand its focus on primary health care throughout the world and to strengthen its cooperation with both UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO). The Baha'i­ International Community, which has had consultative status with UNICEF since 1976, was granted working relations with WHO in 1989. Collaboration has included participation in the WHO Global Program of Health for All by the Year 2000, which produced the training program for Community Health Workers mentioned earlier, and partnership in the "Facts for Life" education program for parents. Both programmes benefit from the extensive network of Baha'i­ communities and the participatory nature of Baha'i­ community life and the Baha'i­ decision-making process.

"Facts For Life" is a UNICEF/WHO/UNESCO publication designed to make available to all parents and communicators the knowledge which could dramatically improve the health of millions of children in developing countries. The publication was made available to 41 national Baha'i­ councils, including the councils of Papua New Guinea and the Philippines, for use in their local communities and is being used extensively by volunteer Community Health Workers.

The Baha'i­ International Community will continue to work toward the improvement of life in our communities. It is our hope that the establishment of the office of the Baha'i­ International Community for the South Pacific Region in Suva, Fiji, will create more opportunities for cooperation in this important area.

The Girl Child

The Girl Child

Statement to the Executive Board of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Agenda item: Women in development

New York—17 April 1991

The Baha'i­ International Community welcomes UNICEF's efforts to focus attention on the plight of the girl child. Since deciding a year ago to give the girl child priority, UNICEF has contributed significantly to an increase in global awareness of the effects of gender discrimination on millions of girl children. By funding research, encouraging the disaggregation of data, disseminating information, and requiring that UNICEF programs be sensitive to the needs of girls, UNICEF has initiated a process that deserves ongoing, wholehearted support.

In the view of the Baha'i­ International Community, the advancement of civilization now requires the full participation of everyone, including women. For this to happen, girl children as well as boy children must be valued by their families and by society. We share UNICEF's distress at the blatant neglect of girl children, justified in many parts of the world as part of the culture. We concur with the recommendation, set forth in the Progress report on achievements made in the implementation of UNICEF policy on women in development (E/ICEF/1991/L.5), that UNICEF broaden its approach to maternal health to include an attempt to alter factors that affect girl's and women's health before maternity, including harmful traditional attitudes and practices.

Not only must girl children receive adequate food, health care, and education, they must be given every opportunity to develop their capacities. Girls will not only render service to humanity as mothers and first educators of the next generation, but, as women, they will make special contributions to the creation of a just world order -- an order characterized by vigor, cooperation, harmony, and a degree of compassion never before witnessed in history. Mothers can now be the primary agents for empowering individuals to transform society. They alone can inculcate in their children the self-esteem and respect for others essential for the advancement of civilization. It is clear, then, that the station of mothers, increasingly denigrated in many societies, is in reality of the greatest importance and highest merit.

Women and girls must be educated -- spiritually, emotionally and intellectually -- because a mother cannot pass on what she does not have. A child needs a nurturing environment and wise guidance in the first years of life in order to develop sound character and a well trained mind. If the mother is unable, because of her own deficiencies, to provide her children with experiences which will equip them for later, formal schooling, they will find themselves at a serious, often crippling, disadvantage. It must be stressed, however, that this dual responsibility of developing the child's character and stimulating his intellect also belongs to the family as a whole, including the father and grandparents, and to the community. As Dr. Aidoo pointed out in her statement to the 1991 Commission on the Status of Women, "The family context provides unique opportunities for boy children and men to become involved in changing the status of the girl child and women." NGO's can also contribute substantially by focusing attention on the girl child in their community-based activities.

As the sexes are equal in intellectual capacity and in potential to serve humanity, girls and boys should study the same curriculum. The way should be open for women and girls to enter all spheres of human endeavor, including the arts and sciences, agriculture, commerce, industry and the affairs of state. There is no natural limit on women's ability.

Presently the world is caught in a cycle of miseducation wherein harmful character traits are passed from one generation to the next, retarding social progress. One source of this miseducation is the failure to respect women, even in the home. The denial of equality between the sexes perpetrates an injustice against one-half of the world's population and promotes in men harmful attitudes and habits that are carried from the family to the work place, to political life, and ultimately to international relations. The world can ill afford the consequences of such ignorance and injustice, especially at this critical moment when prospects for establishing peace on this planet are bright.

The cause of universal education deserves the utmost support that the governments of the world can lend it. For ignorance is indisputably the principal reason for the decline and fall of peoples and the perpetuation of prejudice. No nation can achieve success unless education is accorded all its citizens. Lack of resources limits the ability of many nations to fulfill this necessity, imposing a certain ordering of priorities. The decision-making agencies involved would do well to consider giving first priority to the education of women and girls, since it is through educated mothers that the benefits of knowledge can be most effectively and rapidly diffused throughout society.

The Baha'i­ International Community congratulates UNICEF for its initiatives and urges the UNICEF Executive Board to continue its important emphasis on the needs of the girl child.

La charte de la Terre

La charte de la Terre

Présentée par la Communauté internationale baha'i au Comité préparatoire de la Conférence des Nations Unies sur l'environnement et le développement (CNUED - Sommet Planète Terre).

Genève, Suisse—5 April 1991

La Communauté internationale baha'ie se réjouit de la proposition du Secrétaire général de la Conférence des Nations Unies sur l'environnement et le développement (CNUED), qu'une "Charte de la Terre" soit un des six principaux points à examiner à la CNUED à Rio de Janeiro, au Brésil, en Juin 1992. De fait, une entente sur "les principes qui doivent régir les relations des peuples et des nations entre eux et avec la planète" sera essentielle "pour assurer notre avenir commun en termes aussi bien d'environnement que de développement". Nous saisissons donc cette occasion pour faire part de notre opinion sur les éléments à prendre en considération pour l'élaboration du projet de Charte.

Nous sommes convaincus que tout appel en faveur d'une action mondiale pour l'environnement et le développement doit s'inspirer de valeurs et de principes universellement acceptés. De même, la recherche de solutions aux graves problèmes mondiaux liés à l'environnement et au développement doit dépasser les propositions technico-utilitaires pour s'attaquer aux causes profondes de la crise. Dans une perspective baha'ie, les vraies solutions exigent une vision de l'avenir qui soit universellement admise et fondée sur l'unité et la coopération spontanée entre les nations, les races, les croyances et les classes de la famille humaine. Les éléments suivant s'avèrent essentiels: l'engagement envers un modèle moral plus élevé, l'égalité des femmes et des hommes, et le développement de l'art de la consultation pour un fonctionnement efficace des groupes à tous les niveaux de la société.

La Charte de la Terre de la CNUED peut prendre pour référence, et s'inspirer de nombreuses déclarations sur l'environnement, y compris la Déclaration de Stockholm sur l'environnement (1972), la Déclaration de Nairobi  (1982), la Charte mondiale de la nature (1982), et des documents plus récents tels que le Code de conduite universel de l'environnement (Bangkok, octobre 1990).

De toute évidence, une déclaration de la CNUED ou une Charte de la Terre tirerait profit d'une consultation élargie avec les organisations gouvernementales et non gouvernementales. C'est donc avec plaisir que la Communauté internationale baha'ie offre les éléments suivants pour être éventuellement insérés dans une telle déclaration de principes.

Pour réorienter l'individu et la société vers un avenir durable, nous devons réaliser que:

* L'unité est essentielle si des peuples différents doivent œuvrer pour un avenir commun. La Charte de la Terre devrait identifier les aspects de l'unité qui constituent un préalable à la réussite d'un développement durable. Dans une perspective baha'ie, "Le bien-être de l'humanité, sa paix et sa sécurité sont inaccessibles à moins que, et jusqu'à ce que, son unité soit fermement établie."

* L'exploitation effrénée des ressources naturelles n'est qu'un symptôme d'une maladie générale de l'esprit humain. Aussi, toute solution à la crise de l'environnement et du développement doit s'appuyer sur une approche favorisant l'équilibre et l'harmonie spirituels à l'intérieur de l'être humain, dans les relations entre individus et dans les rapports de l'homme avec l'environnement dans son ensemble. Le progrès matériel doit être au service non seulement du corps, mais aussi de l'intellect et de l'esprit.

* Les transformations requises pour réorienter le monde vers un avenir durable demandent un degré de sacrifice, d'intégration sociale, d'actions désintéressées et d'unité d'intention rarement atteint dans l'histoire de l'humanité. Ces qualités ont pu atteindre leur plus haut degré de développement grâce au pouvoir transformateur de la religion. C'est pourquoi les communautés religieuses mondiales ont un rôle majeur à jouer en éveillant ces vertus chez l'individu, en libérant les aptitudes latentes dans son esprit et en le poussant à agir dans l'intérêt de la planète, de ses peuples et des générations futures.

* Rien, si ce n'est un système fédéral planétaire guidé par des lois universellement acceptées et appliquées, ne permettra aux États-nations de gérer conjointement un monde toujours plus interdépendant et en rapide mutation, garantissant ainsi la paix et la justice sociale et économique pour tous.

* Le développement doit être décentralisé afin de permettre à toutes les communautés de participer à la formulation et à la mise en œuvre des décisions et des programmes qui touchent leur vie. Une telle décentralisation n'exclut pas nécessairement un système et une stratégie globaux. Au contraire, elle peut garantir l'adaptation des processus de développement à la foisonnante diversité culturelle, géographique et écologique de la planète.

* La confrontation et la domination doivent laisser place à la consultation, afin que prévale la coopération au sein de la famille des nations lors de la conception et de l'application de mesures qui préserveront l'équilibre écologique de la terre.

* Ce n'est que lorsque les femmes seront les bienvenues dans tous les domaines de l'activité humaine, environnement et développement compris, qu'un climat moral et psychologique sera créé dans lequel pourra naître et prospérer une civilisation pacifique, harmonieuse et durable.

* L'éducation universelle est une cause qui mérite d'être soutenue énergiquement car aucune nation ne peut réussir sans que l'éducation soit accordée à tous ses citoyens. Elle favoriserait la prise de conscience de l'unité du genre humain et du lien primordial entre l'homme et la nature. Par la notion de citoyenneté mondiale, elle peut préparer les jeunes du monde aux changements organiques de la structure de la société qui découlent du principe d'unité.

La Communauté internationale baha'ie se tient prête à collaborer à l'élaboration plus poussée et à la promotion d'une Charte de la Terre en consultation avec d'autres organismes intéressés.

Earth Charter

Earth Charter

The following statement, offering suggestions for the proposed "Earth Charter," was originally presented by the Baha'i International Community to the Preparatory Committee of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) and reprinted for distribution at UNCED. As currently proposed by the UNCED Secretariat, such a Charter would be one of six major themes to be addressed by world leaders gathered at UNCED in Brazil in June 1992.

Geneva—5 April 1991

The Baha'i­ International Community applauds the proposal of the Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) that an Earth Charter be one of six principal components to be addressed at UNCED in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in June 1992. Indeed, agreement on the "principles to govern the relationships of peoples and nations with each other and with the earth" will be essential "to ensure our common future in both environmental and developmental terms." We, therefore, welcome this opportunity to share our views on elements to be considered for inclusion in this proposed Charter.

It is our conviction that any call to global action for environment and development must be rooted in universally accepted values and principles. Similarly, the search for solutions to the world's grave environmental and developmental problems must go beyond technical-utilitarian proposals and address the underlying causes of the crisis. Genuine solutions, in the Baha'i­ view, will require a globally accepted vision for the future, based on unity and willing cooperation among the nations, races, creeds, and classes of the human family. Commitment to a higher moral standard, equality between the sexes, and the development of consultative skills for the effective functioning of groups at all levels of society will be essential.

There are many environmental declarations to which the UNCED Earth Charter could refer and on which it might draw, including the Stockholm Declaration on the Human Environment (1972), the Nairobi Declaration (1982), the World Charter for Nature (1982), and more recent documents such as the Universal Code of Environmental Conduct (Bangkok, October 1990).

Clearly, an UNCED declaration or Earth Charter would profit from the widest possible consultation with governments and non-governmental organizations. The Baha'i­ International Community is, therefore, pleased to offer the following elements for possible inclusion in such a declaration of principles.

In order to reorient individuals and societies toward a sustainable future, we must recognize the following.

  • Unity is essential if diverse peoples are to work toward a common future. The Earth Charter might well identify those aspects of unity which are prerequisites for the achievement of sustainable development. In the Baha'i­ view, "The well-being of mankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly established."
  • The unrestrained exploitation of natural resources is merely a symptom of an overall sickness of the human spirit. Any solutions to the environment/development crisis must, therefore, be rooted in an approach which fosters spiritual balance and harmony within the individual, between individuals, and with the environment as a whole. Material development must serve not only the body, but the mind and spirit as well.
  • The changes required to reorient the world toward a sustainable future imply degrees of sacrifice, social integration, selfless action, and unity of purpose rarely achieved in human history. These qualities have reached their highest degree of development through the power of religion. Therefore, the world's religious communities have a major role to play in inspiring these qualities in their members, releasing latent capacities of the human spirit and empowering individuals to act on behalf of the planet, its peoples, and future generations.
  • Nothing short of a world federal system, guided by universally agreed upon and enforceable laws, will allow nation states to manage cooperatively an increasingly interdependent and rapidly changing world, thereby ensuring peace and social and economic justice for all the world's peoples.
  • Development must be decentralized in order to involve communities in formulating and implementing the decisions and programs that affect their lives. Such a decentralization need not conflict with a global system and strategy, but would in fact ensure that developmental processes are adapted to the planet's rich cultural, geographic, and ecological diversity.
  • Consultation must replace confrontation and domination in order to gain the cooperation of the family of nations in devising and implementing measures that will preserve the earth's ecological balance.
  • Only as women are welcomed into full partnership in all fields of human endeavor, including environment and development, will the moral and psychological climate be created in which a peaceful, harmonious, and sustainable civilization can emerge and flourish.
  • The cause of universal education deserves the utmost support, for no nation can achieve success unless education is accorded all its citizens. Such an education should promote the consciousness of both the oneness of humanity and the integral connection between humankind and the world of nature. By nurturing a sense of world citizenship, education can prepare the youth of the world for the organic changes in the structure of society which the principle of oneness implies.

The Baha'i­ International Community stands ready to contribute to the further elaboration and promotion of an Earth Charter in consultation with other interested bodies.

Carta da Terra

Carta da Terra

A seguinte proposta Carta da Terra foi apresentada pela Comunidade Internacional Bahá’í ao Comitê Preparatório da Conferência das Unidas sobre o Meio-Ambiente e Desenvolvimento (UNCED - Conferência Para 0 Planeta Terra.)

Genebra, Suiça—5 April 1991

A Comunidade Internacional Bahá’í louva a proposta do Secretário Geral da Conferência das Nações Unidas sobre o Meio Ambiente e Desenvolvimento (UNCED) de que uma Carta Da Terra seja um dos seis principais elementos a serem enfocados durante a UNCED no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil, em junho de 1992. Realmente, a concordância quanto aos "princípios que devem governar as relações entre povos e nações, entre si e com a Terra "será essencial "para garantir nosso futuro comum, tanto em termos de Meio Ambiente, quanto de desenvolvimento". Portanto, nos sentimos honrados com esta oportunidade de compartilharmos nossos pontos de vista sobre os elementos a serem considerados para a inclusão nessa Carta que está sendo proposta. Estamos convictos de que qualquer apelo para ação global em prol do Meio Ambiente e do Desenvolvimento precisa ter suas raízes embasadas em valores e princípios universalmente aceitos. De modo semelhante, a busca de soluções para os severos problemas mundiais de meio-ambiente e desenvolvimento precisa transcender as propostas técnico-utilitárias e enfocar as causas subjacentes à crise. Soluções genuínas, do ponto de vista Bahá’í, exigirão uma visão de futuro que seja aceita em nível mundial, baseada na unidade e na cooperação voluntária entre nações, raças, credos e classes da família humana. O comprometimento com um padrão moral mais elevado, a igualdade entre os sexos e o desenvolvimento da capacidade de consulta para o efetivo funcionamento de grupos em todos os níveis da sociedade, serão essenciais.

Existem muitas declarações sobre Meio Ambiente que a Carta da Terra da UNCED poderia usar como referência e como fonte de inspiração, incluindo-se a Declaração de Estocolmo sobre o Meio Ambiente Humano (1972), a Declaração de Nairobi (1982), a Carta Mundial para a Natureza (1982) e documentos mais recentes como o Código Universal de Conduta Ambiental (Bangcoc, outubro de 1990).

É evidente que uma declaração da UNCED ou uma Carta da Terra beneficiar-se-ia através de uma ampla consulta com o maior número possível de organizações governamentais e não-governamentais. A Comunidade Internacional Bahá’í apraz-se, portanto em oferecer os seguintes elementos para uma possível inclusão nesta declaração de princípios.

Para reorientar os indivíduos e as sociedades em favor de um futuro sustentável, devemos reconhecer que:

  • A Unidade é essencial, se Povos diferentes forem trabalhar em prol de um futuro comum. A Cartada Terra poderá identificar os aspectos de unidade que constituem pré-requisitos para a obtenção de um desenvolvimento sustentável. Do ponto de vista Bahá’í, "o bem-estar da humanidade, sua paz e segurança, são inatingíveis, a menos e até que, a sua unidade seja firmemente estabelecida".
  • A exploração irrestrita dos recursos naturais é meramente um sintoma de uma doença generalizada do espírito humano. Quaisquer soluções para a crise ambiental/desenvolvimento devem, por conseguinte, estar embasadas numa abordagem que incentive o equilíbrio e a harmonia espiritual dentro do indivíduo, entre indivíduos e com o meio ambiente como um todo. O desenvolvimento material deve servir não somente ao corpo, mas também à mente e ao espírito.
  • As mudanças exigidas na reorientação do mundo em direção a um futuro sustentável implicam em diferentes graus de sacrifício, integração social, ações despreendidas e uma unidade de propósito raramente alcançados na história humana. Estas qualidades obtiveram seu grau máximo de desenvolvimento através do poder da religião. Portanto, as comunidades religiosas mundiais têm um papel importantíssimo a desempenhar, inspirando estas qualidades em seus fiéis, liberando capacidades latentes do espírito humano e possibilitando aos indivíduos agirem em nome do planeta, de seus povos e das futuras gerações.
  • Somente um sistema federativo mundial, guiado por leis universalmente aceitas e obrigatórias, permitirá aos Estados-Nações administrarem cooperativamente um mundo cada vez mais interdependente e em rápida mutação, assegurando, conseqüentemente, paz e justiça econômica e social para todos os povos do mundo.
  • desenvolvimento deve ser descentralizado de maneira a envolver as comunidades na formulação e implementação das decisões e programas que afetam suas vidas. Tal descentralização não precisa conflitar com um sistema e estratégia global, mas iria, na realidade, assegurar que os processos de desenvolvimento estivessem adaptados à rica diversidade cultural, geográfica e ecológica do planeta.
  • A consulta deve substituir o confronto e a dominação, de maneira a obter a cooperação da família das nações na concepção e implementação de medidas que irão preservar o equilíbrio ecológico da Terra.
  • Somente quando as mulheres forem bemvindas à plena parceria, em todos os campos das atividades humanas, incluindo as áreas de desenvolvimento e meio ambiente, será criado o clima moral e psicológico no qual uma civilização pacífica, harmoniosa e sustentável poderá emergir e florescer. A causa da educação universal merece um apoio incondicional, pois nenhuma nação pode atingir o sucesso, a menos que a educação seja dada a todos os seus cidadãos. Tal educação deve promover a conscientização tanto da unicidade da humanidade, quanto da integração existente entre o ser humano e a natureza. Ao criar um sentimento de cidadania mundial, a educação pode preparar a juventude do mundo para as mudanças orgânicas na estrutura da sociedade, implícitas no princípio de unicidade.

A Comunidade Internacional Bahá’í prontifica-se a contribuir para a elaboração e promoção da Carta da Terra em consulta com outras entidades interessadas.

Erdcharta

Erdcharta

Vorschläge für die Erdcharta - formuliert von der Internationalen Bahá'í-Gemeinde Die folgende Stellungnahme enthält Vorschläge für die geplante "Erdcharta". Sie wurde von der Internationalen Bahá'í-Gemeinde dem Vorbereitungsausschuss der UN-Konferenz für Umwelt und Entwicklung (UNCED) vorgelegt. Wie derzeit vom UNCED-Büro vorgeschlagen, soll eine solche Erdcharta eines der sechs Hauptthemen sein, das die bei der UNCED-Konferenz in Brasilien im Juni 1992 versammelten Regierungsvertreter aus aller Welt ansprechen werden.

Geneva—5 April 1991

[NB: entspricht englischsprachiges Statement EARTH CHARTER vom 5. April 1991]

Die Internationale Bahá'í-Gemeinde begrüßt den Vorschlag des Generalsekretärs der UN-Konferenz für Umwelt und Entwicklung (UNCED), eine "Erdcharta" zu den sechs von der UNCED in Rio de Janeiro (Brasilien) im Juni 1992 behandelten Hauptkomponentenmit einzuschließen. Tatsächlich wird ein Abkommen über "Prinzipien, die die Beziehungen der Völker und Nationen zueinander und zur Erde bestimmen" grundlegend sein, "um unsere gemeinsame Zukunft sowohl in Umwelt-, als auch in Entwicklungsfragen zu sichern". Daher begrüßen wir die Gelegenheit, uns zu den Faktoren zu äußern, die unseres Erachtens in die vorgeschlagene Charta miteinbezogen werden sollten.

Wir sind davon überzeugt, dass jeder Aufruf zu globalem Handeln für Umwelt und Entwicklung in allgemein anerkannten Werten und Prinzipien wurzeln muss. Gleichermaßen muss die Suche nach Lösungen für die ernsten Umwelt- und Entwicklungsprobleme der Welt über pragmatisch-technologische Vorschläge hinausgehen und die zugrundeliegenden Ursachen der Krise ansprechen. Wirkliche Lösungen erfordern, so der Bahá'í-Standpunkt, eine weltweit akzeptierte Zukunftsvorstellung, die auf Einheit und freiwilliger Kooperation der Nationen, Rassen, Glaubensrichtungen und Klassen der Menschheitsfamilie beruht. Es wird unerlässlich sein, sich einem höheren Grad an Moral, der Gleichberechtigung der Geschlechter und der Entwicklung der Fähigkeit zur Beratung zu verpflichten, damit Gruppen auf allen gesellschaftlichen Ebenen effektiv funktionieren.

Es gibt viele Umwelterklärungen, auf die die UNCED-Erdcharta sich beziehen und aus denen sie schöpfen könnte, darunter die Stockholmer Erklärung über die Umwelt der Menschen (1972), die Erklärung von Nairobi (1982), die Weltcharta für die Natur (1982) und jüngere Dokumente wie der Allgemeine Kodex für umweltgerechtes Verhalten (Bangkok, Oktober 1990).

Sicherlich würde eine UNCED-Erklärung oder "Erdcharta" von möglichst breit gefächerter Beratung mit Regierungen und nichtstaatlichen Organisationen profitieren. Die Internationale Bahá'í-Gemeinschaft ergreift daher gerne die Gelegenheit, die folgenden Punkte zur Einbeziehung in eine solche Erklärung von Prinzipien anzubieten.

Um eine Orientierung des Einzelnen und der Gesellschaft auf eine nachhaltige Zukunft hin zu erreichen, müssen wir folgende Punkte  berücksichtigen:

Einheit ist unerlässlich, wenn verschiedene Völker für eine gemeinsame Zukunft arbeiten sollen. Die "Erdcharta" kann durchaus die Aspekte der Einheit aufzeigen, die Voraussetzungen sind für eine aufrechtzuerhaltende Entwicklung. Die Bahá'í sind der Meinung: "Das Wohlergehen der Menschheit, ihr Friede und ihre Sicherheit sind unerreichbar, wenn und ehe nicht ihre Einheit fest begründet ist."

Die ungehinderte Ausbeutung natürlicher Rohstoffe ist nur ein Symptom für eine umfassende Krankheit des menschlichen Geistes. Alle Lösungen für die Umwelt- und Entwicklungskrise müssen daher in einem Ansatz wurzeln, der geistige Ausgeglichenheit und Harmonie im einzelnen, zwischen Individuen und mit der Umwelt als ganzes fördert. Materielle Entwicklung muss nicht nur dem Körper, sondern auch dem Geist und der Seele dienen.

Die Neuorientierung der Welt hin zu einer vertretbaren Zukunftsvision erfordert Veränderungen, die ein in der bisherigen Menschheitsgeschichte selten erreichtes Ausmaß des Opfers, der gesellschaftlichen Integration, des selbstlosen Handelns und gemeinsamer Ziele mit sich bringen. Diese Eigenschaften haben ihre höchste Entwicklungsstufe durch die Kraft der Religion erreicht. Daher spielen die Religionsgemeinschaften der Welt eine große Rolle dabei, diese Eigenschaften bei ihren Mitgliedern anzuregen, schlummernde Kräfte des menschlichen Geistes freizusetzen und einzelne dazu zu bewegen, zum Wohl des ganzen Planeten, seiner Völker und künftiger Generationen zu handeln.

Nichts geringeres als ein globales föderatives System, geleitet von allgemein durchführbaren Gesetzen, wird es den Nationalstaaten ermöglichen, in Zusammenarbeit eine immer enger zusammenhängende und sich schnell verändernde Welt zu verwalten und dadurch den Frieden sowie soziale und wirtschaftliche Gerechtigkeit für alle Völker der Welt zu sichern.

Entwicklung muss dezentralisiert werden, um Gemeinschaften bei der Formulierung und Durchführung von Entscheidungen, die ihr Leben betreffen, einzubeziehen. Eine solche Dezentralisierung, die einem weltweiten System und einer globalen Strategie nicht widersprechen muss, würde dafür sorgen, dass sich Entwicklungsprozesse der reichhaltigen kulturellen, geographischen und ökologischen Vielfalt des Planeten anpassen.

Beratung muss Konfrontation und Beherrschung ersetzen, um innerhalb der Familie der Nationen Kooperation bei der Planung und Anwendung von Maßnahmen zu erreichen, die das ökologische Gleichgewicht der Welt erhalten werden.

Erst wenn die Frauen in allen Bereichen menschlichen Bemühens, darunter auch Umwelt und Entwicklung, als gleichwertige Partner aufgenommen werden, wird das moralische und psychologische Klima geschaffen, in dem eine friedliche, harmonische und aufrechtzuerhaltende Zivilisation entstehen und zur Blüte kommen kann.

Die Angelegenheit der allgemeinen Bildung verdient höchste Unterstützung, da keine Nation erfolgreich sein kann, wenn nicht allen Bürgern Bildung gewährt wird. Diese Bildung sollte das Bewusstsein sowohl der Einheit der Menschheit als auch der wesentlichen Verbindung zwischen der Menschheit und der Natur fördern. Indem Erziehung ein Gefühl für Weltbürgertum nährt, kann sie die Jugend der Welt auf die organischen Veränderungen in der Gesellschaftsstruktur, die das Prinzip der Einheit zur Folge hat, vorbereiten.

Die Internationale Bahá'í-Gemeinde ist bereit, zu der weiteren Ausarbeitung und Verbreitung einer "Erdcharta" in Beratung mit anderen interessierten Institutionen beizutragen.

Carta de la Tierra

Carta de la Tierra

Río de Janeiro, Brasil—5 April 1991

5 de Abril 1991

La Comunidad Internacional Baha'i aplaude la proposición del Secretario General de la Conferencia de las Naciones Unidas sobre el Medio Ambiente y el Desarrollo (UNCED) que una Carta de la Tierra sea uno de los seis componentes principales que serán presentados a UNCED en Río de Janeiro, Brasil, en junio de 1992. En realidad, un acuerdo sobre los "principios que gobiernen las relaciones de los pueblos y naciones entre sí y con la tierra"será esencial "para asegurar nuestro futuro común tanto en términos del medio ambiente como en los del desarrollo". Por lo tanto, damos la bienvenida a esta oportunidad para compartir nuestros puntos de vista sobre los elementos que deben ser considerados para su inclusión en la Carta que se propone.

Es nuestra convicción que cualquier llamado a la acción global para el medio ambiente y para el desarrollo debe tener sus raíces en valores y principios universalmente aceptados. De igual manera, la búsqueda de soluciones para los graves problemas ambientales y de desarrollo del mundo, debe ir más allá de las propuestas técnico-utilitarias y abordar las causas subyacentes a la crisis. Desde el punto de vista Baha'i, las soluciones genuinas requerirán una visión del futuro aceptada globalmente, que se base en la unidad y voluntaria cooperación entre las naciones, razas, credos y clases de la familia humana. Será esencial el compromiso con una norma moral más elevada, con la igualdad entre los sexos y con el desarrollo de habilidades de consulta para el funcionamiento efectivo de los grupos a todos los niveles de la sociedad.

Hay muchas declaraciones sobre el medio ambiente a los que se podría referir la Carta de la Tierra de UNCED y de los que podría obtener material, incluyendo la Declaración de Estocolmo sobre Medio Ambiente Humano (1972), la Declaración de Nairobi (1982), la Carta Mundial de La Naturaleza (1982), y documentos más recientes tales como el Código Universal de Conducta Ambiental (Bangkok, octubre de 1990).

Está claro que una declaración o Carta de la Tierra de UNCED se beneficiaría con la más amplia consulta con los gobiernos y los organismos no-gubernamentales. Por lo tanto, la Comunidad Internacional Baha'i se complace en ofrecer los siguientes elementos para su posible inclusión en tal declaración de principios.

Con la finalidad de reorientar a los individuos y a las sociedades hacia un futuro sustentable, debemos reconocer lo siguiente:

La unidad es esencial si pueblos diversos han de trabajar en pro de un futuro común. La Carta de la Tierra bien podría identificar aquellos aspectos de la unidad que son pre-requisitos para lograr un desarrollo sostenible. Desde el punto de vista Baha'i, "El bienestar de la humanidad, su paz y seguridad son inalcanzables, a menos que se establezca firmemente su unidad".

La explotación irrestringida de los recursos naturales es tan sólo un síntoma de una enfermedad generalizada del alma humana. Cualquier solución a la crisis del medio ambiente/desarrollo debe, por lo tanto, tener sus raíces en un enfoque que promueva equilibrio y armonía espirituales dentro del individuo, entre los individuos, y con el medio ambiente como un todo. El desarrollo material no debe servir tan sólo al cuerpo, sino también a la mente y al espíritu.

Los cambios que se requieren para reorientar al mundo hacia un futuro sustentable involucran grados de sacrificio, integración social, acción desprendida y unidad de propósitos que rara vez se han logrado en la historia humana. Estas cualidades han alcanzado su grado más elevado de desarrollo mediante el poder de la religión. Por lo tanto, las comunidades religiosas del mundo tienen un papel preponderante que desempeñar para inspirar estas cualidades en sus miembros, liberando capacidades latentes del espíritu humano y dando poder a los individuos para actuar de parte del planeta, de sus pueblos y las generaciones futuras.

Nada que sea menos que un sistema federado mundial, guiado por leyes implantables universalmente acordadas, hará que sea posible que los estados naciones puedan manejar cooperativamente un mundo cada vez más interdependiente y que cambia velozmente, posibilitando de esta forma la paz y la justicia social y económica para todos los pueblos del mundo.

El desarrollo se debe descentralizar con el objeto de involucrar a las comunidades en la formulación e implementación de decisiones y programas que afectan sus vidas. Dicha descentralización no necesita entrar en conflicto con un sistema y estrategia globales, sino que aseguraría que los procesos de desarrollo se adapten a la rica diversidad cultural, geográfica y ecológica del planeta.

La consulta debe reemplazar a la confrontación y el predominio con el objeto de lograr la cooperación de la familia de las naciones en planificar e implementar medidas que preservarán el equilibrio ecológico de la tierra.

Solamente a medida que se dé la bienvenida a las mujeres como socias plenas en todos los campos del esfuerzo humano, incluyendo el medio ambiente y el desarrollo, podrá crearse el clima moral y sicológico en que pueda emerger y florecer una civilización pacífica, armoniosa y sustentable.

La causa de la educación universal merece el máximo apoyo, ya que ninguna nación puede tener éxito a no ser que se conceda educación a todos sus cuidadanos. Tal educación debería promover la conciencia tanto de la unidad de la humanidad como de la conexión integral entre los seres humanos y el mundo de la naturaleza. Al nutrir un sentimiento de ciudadanía mundial, la educación puede preparar a los jóvenes del mundo para los cambios orgánicos en la estructura de la sociedad que implica el principio de la unidad.

La Comunidad Internacional Baha'i está lista para contribuir al desarrollo adicional y promoción de una Carta de la Tierra en consulta con otras entidades interesadas.

Activities in Support of International Literacy Year - 1990

Activities in Support of International Literacy Year - 1990

Baha'i International Community Organizational Report to the seventh meeting of the International Task Force on Literacy

Bonn, Germany—4 February 1991
Knowledge is as wings to Man's life, and a ladder for his ascent. Its acquisition is incumbent upon everyone. - Bahá'u'lláh

The ability to read has been recognized as a fundamental human right in the Baha'i­ teachings since Bahá'u'lláh proclaimed his message of universal peace and brotherhood to the peoples of the world in the late nineteenth century. Moreover, the Baha'i­ teachings suggest that girls and boys should follow the same curriculum and that "if there is not money enough in a family to educate both the girl and the boy the money must be dedicated to the girl's education, for she is the potential mother."

Accordingly, and in light of the United Nations proclamation of 1990 as International Literacy Year, the Baha'i­ International Community is pleased to take this opportunity to share with its co-members of the International Task Force on Literacy a summary of the principle literacy activities carried out during the past two years by its international office in New York and its national and local affiliates around the world.

Principal Activities

A. International Representation

The Baha'i­ International Community has actively supported the work of the International Task Force on Literacy since December 1988, coordinating representation on its behalf at the Chantilly, Mombasa, New Delhi and Paris meetings. Most recently, the Baha'i­ International Community in New York served as the chair of the Event Planning Committee which organized a ceremony/reception and seminar at United Nations Headquarters on December 10 and 11, 1990, for the conclusion of the ITFL Book Voyage Project. The Committee included members from UNESCO, the United Nations Department of Public Information (UN/DPI), the Center for Human Rights, the NGO committees on education and human rights and the Literacy Assistance Center for New York City. On behalf of the international community, the Secretary General of the United Nations, His Excellency Mr. Javier Perez de Cuellar, participated in the ceremony/reception by accepting the book of messages from learners around the world. Mr. Andri Isaksson, Director of the UNESCO New York Office, also provided a statement. The seminar, entitled "International Literacy: 1990 and Beyond," included a panel of speakers and musical entertainment, marking the conclusion of both International Literacy Year and the Book Voyage Project.

At the World Conference on Education for All in Jomtien, Thailand, the Baha'i­ International Community distributed a publication entitled "Survey of Baha'i­ Education Programs" which contains descriptions of five very different Baha'i­ educational programmes. In addition, the Baha'i­ representative presented papers on four of the round-table discussions topics. The Baha'i­ representative served as the NGO Vice-President on the Bureau of the Conference and is currently co-chairing a committee promoting an international NGO Network to support the "Framework for Action" adopted at the Jomtien Conference.

B. Country Activities

In a letter of 10 July 1989 addressed to the Baha'i­s of the World, the Universal House of Justice, the international governing body for the Baha'i­ world stated, "Moreover, further systematic attention needs to be given to the eventual elimination of illiteracy from the Baha'i­ community,..." Further to this, on 18 May 1990, the Baha'i­ International Community addressed its 151 national affiliates around the world with a letter and full report on follow-up to the "World Conference on Basic Education for All." Included in the report were suggestions as to how Baha'i­ communities could contribute to the promotion of Education for All.

To date, reports on literacy activities have been received from fifty-two (52) countries. These activities include hosting a celebration of ILY on Human Rights Day, organizing cultural events, and sponsoring national and international conferences, all to promote literacy. (Please find an alphabetical listing of some of these events, at the end of this report.)

Non-formal education activities: In Baha'i­ communities around the world, literacy and other change-inducing activities emanate primarily from the natural stirrings at the grass roots. Thus Baha'i­ pre-schools, kindergartens, tutorial schools and standard classes have been created in a great number of communities to meet local needs and concerns. Over the past two years the number of ongoing Baha'i­ educational programs world wide has increased from 573 to 697: 186 in Africa; 142 in the Americas; 331 in Asia; 12 in the Pacific; and 8 in Europe.

Full participation of women in community life is a goal for Baha'i­ communities. Equal participation, however, requires equal access to education. Therefore, Baha'i­ literacy programs are designed to encourage participation by all members of the community. Moreover, a major aim of many local literacy efforts is to empower women, both in their traditional roles as mothers and educators of children, and in their new roles as full participants in the advancement of their communities and the world.

Baha'i­ literacy programs for women in Kenya, India, Zaire, and Panama exemplify the rich variety, originality, and responsiveness of programs that spring from the grass roots. In Kenya, women's literacy rests on a series of mothers' booklets, developed by the Baha'i­s to assist women to teach health, agriculture, morals, and domestic skills to children. These booklets have been shared with Baha'i­ communities around the world and are currently being translated into 26 languages. In Panchgani, India, 30 literacy centers operated by a Baha'i­ school served 900 adults in 1984, 750 of whom were women; in 1989, the program had expanded to 100 centers in 60 villages. Since 1987, 2500 students in Zaire have completed literacy courses offered by the Baha'i­ community. The "Bayanda Project" has experienced a high rate of success with a literacy program for the Bayandas (Pygmies) of north-eastern Zaire who previously had little or no opportunity for formal education; 70% were women and girls. In Panama, the Guaymi Cultural Center assisted the Ministry of Education to create culturally sensitive literacy materials based on spiritual principles, such as the principles of unity in diversity and the equality of men and women.

Formal education activities: Formal Baha'i­ schools (primary, secondary, and tertiary) around the world have increased by 29 during the past two years and now number 62: 10 in Africa, 19 in the Americas, 30 in Asia, and 3 in the Pacific. These schools, grounded in the principle of the oneness of humankind, are open to everyone in the community.

C. Related Conferences

Over the past two years, the Association for Baha'i­ Studies, an international association dedicated to the study of the Baha'i­ Writings and their application to modern problems, has recently hosted the following conferences:

"The Role of Women in an Advancing Civilization," 24 - 27 March 1989, Adelaide, Australia.

"Harmony Between Religion and Science," 27 June 1989, Trinidad.

"Human Development and Society," 30 September - 1 October 1989, Santiago, Chile.

"Economy: Old Dogmas, New Thinking," 29 September - 1 October, 1989, Austria.

"The Environment: Humanity's Common Heritage," 13 - 16 April 1990, Perth, Australia.

"Community and Diversity," 6 - 8 April 1990, Birmingham, England.

"Fostering a Creative Development," 28 - 30 September 1990, Nairobi, Kenya.

"Models of Racial Unity," 9 - 11 November 1990, Atlanta, Georgia, USA

"Freedom," 18 - 19 November 1990, Paris, France.

Though conceived, coordinated and hosted by Baha'i­s, these conferences bring together for consultation a diversity of peoples and opinions whose aim is the promotion of knowledge and the advancement of civilization.

In conclusion, the Baha'i­ International Community anticipates a continual increase in the number and variety of education programs in Baha'i­ communities around the world and is committed to promoting education for all people.

ANNEX I

List of Activities Reported by National Affiliates

Australia: Distributed a Resource Package on how to become involved in local literacy projects to all local Baha'i­ communities.

Brazil: Seven communities in conjunction with the School of the Nations organized different activities involving children in support of ILY. One project included sponsorship by the Secretary of Education of the Federal District together with the Peace Education Programme. Additionally, a paper was presented to UNICEF entitled, "The Rural Politechnic Institute in Djalal Ehrari: Creating a New Vision for Basic Education in the Amazon."

Chad (Tchad): In conjunction with the Ministry of Education, the Baha'i­ Community sponsored a program with a guest speaker on ILY which was televised on 24 October 1989.

Cook Islands: At the request of the government of the Cook Islands, a paper was submitted as a contribution to a commission established to look into the country's education system.

Ecuador: On 16 October 1989, Radio Baha'i­ in Otavalo, Ecuador began transmitting the first, second and third courses in compensatory schooling. Representatives attended a meeting sponsored by UNESCO on Basic Education for Adults.

France: Plans are underway for a project jointly sponsored by the Baha'i­s and ACAFOM (Association for the Education of Immigrant Families ) on the outskirts of Paris.

Gambia: The Baha'i­s created the Mbayen Fula Project, designed to make use of volunteers from the United States. The volunteers do not actually teach the class but help train, encourage, and direct the efforts of village level volunteers-teachers. Additionally, a Baha'i­ literacy exhibit was created to participate in a special seminar week sponsored by the Non-Formal Education Services Unit of the Department of Education.

Hawaiian Islands: Local communities have launched two programs called "Project Read" and "Breath of Life." The Baha'i­ Community Services program is providing training for tutors for literacy classes, in collaboration with the Governor's Council on Literacy. At the 7th Annual Pacific Educational Conference entitled "The Pacific Child: In the 21st Century," a large literacy exhibit distributed numerous Baha'i­ position papers as well as the documents from the Jomtien Conference.

India: Two tribal Baha'i­s were awarded the first prize at Literacy Learners Song Competition organized in collaboration with ITFL and with the full support of UNICEF. Twenty-nine organizations participated. The Faizi Baha'i­ Institute of Indore, which conducts a vocational training project for rural and tribal women, includes a literacy program for women (see ONE Country, Vol. 2, Issue 4).

Macau: The Baha'i­s were instrumental in promoting literacy work in Macau. The ITFL representative was approached by representatives of the Baha'i­ Community thereby creating the Literacy Association of Macau. This Association, along with the BADI Foundation, created a small project preparing Chinese youth to assist with basic literacy work designed for new immigrants in need of special tutoring. Additionally, a position statement on the Baha'i­ viewpoint on literacy was drafted for distribution to the community at large.

Mexico: A Baha'i­ booth was created with an emphasis on ILY for participation at a fair sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce, Ensanada.

The Netherlands: ILY materials received a wide distribution to local Baha'i­ Communities requesting that they support the local community programs for literacy education.

New Zealand: Participation in national conferences entitled "Valuing Education" and "ILY Conference." At the "ILY Conference" in Auckland, the Baha'i­s were invited to discuss the relationship of literacy to spiritualism, and accordingly chose the theme "Literacy and the Preservation of Spiritual Heritage."

Nicaragua: The Baha'i­s initiated a literacy project in the one Baha'i­ Community, El Trapiche, where there were illiterate Baha'i­s and urged the Baha'i­ youth to take part in the literacy project initiated by the Ministry for Adult Education.

Norway: Baha'i­ Representatives participated in a UNESCO seminar on literacy and initiated contacts with the project secretary for ILY, Mr. Leif Ellingsen.

Pakistan: The Baha'i­s on Muzaffarabad organized a literacy conference at their National Baha'i­ Centre, at which the Principal of the Neelum Public School presided. Leaders from all walks of life made presentations including statistics on the challenges facing the great amounts of people still illiterate. Attendees included women and children. Songs were sung by the children and a famous Baha'i­ poet, Mr. Mukhlis Vijdani presented an Urdu poem on literacy.

Panama: A two-day seminar on literacy was held by the Baha'i­ Community in collaboration with the Panamanian Ministry of Education in Panama City on 23-24 April 1990. The Baha'i­s were specifically asked to speak on "spiritual qualities" and on "Universal Elements Essential in Education." The Minister of Education requested that the Baha'i­s present their literacy projects to the Ministry of Education.

Puerto Rico: The Baha'i­ Community addressed letters to numerous schools, clubs, associations and local governments urging the creation of programs designed to supply free education to all.

Spain: The 1990 annual two-day conference sponsored by the Association for Baha'i­ Studies in Zaragoza focused on education. Main points covered were the role of literacy in the elimination of prejudices of all kinds, and the actual literacy situation in the world today and the requirements for the future. A wide circle of Spanish scholars was in attendance.

Transkei: A presentation of "A Practical Guide," created by UNESCO for ILY was made to the Minister of Education introducing him to the aims of the year and to the fact that the Baha'i­ Community in his country has adopted the goals prescribed.

Uganda: The Baha'i­s were invited to provide an exhibit at the national celebration for ILY, 8 September 1990 in Kamuli District. Posters, quotations on literacy and children's books were available at the booth. The Baha'i­s were specially recognized and thanked for their participation in the event by both the Chairman of Kamuli Adult Education and the District Administrator of Kamuli.

ANNEX II

Related Documents

Survey of Baha'i­ Education Programmes, Baha'i­ International Community, January 1990, New York ONE Country: Newsletter of the Baha'i­ International Community *Vol. 2, Issue 4; October-December 1990

A Baha'i Perspective on Drug Abuse Prevention

A Baha'i Perspective on Drug Abuse Prevention

An article by A. M. Ghadirian, Professor, McGill University, Montreal, Canada, published in Bulletin on Narcotics, Vol. XLIII, number 1, a publication of the International Drug Control Programme

—15 January 1991

Abstract

The present article provides a description of some of the principles that are considered by Baha'i communities in developing programmes for the prevention of drug abuse that target the individual, the family and society. The individual is helped to develop a sense of purpose, a feeling of self-esteem and respect for others, a state of maturity making it possible for him or her to evaluate circumstances objectively and to postpone immediate gratification for a future goal, a feeling of responsibility, and spiritual orientation, which can help the individual to develop positive attitudes towards himself or herself and the environment. Parents are encouraged to promote love and unity, as well as a drug-free lifestyle, so that children are provided with healthy models. The family experience is also intended to help children to cope with stress and other problems of daily life. By means of education, society at large is encouraged to adopt positive attitudes towards health and to promote activities that lead to the elimination of isolation.

Introduction

Drug and alcohol abuse has assumed epidemic proportions in various parts of the world. Health-care professionals are combating this epidemic, but the task of preventing drug abuse remains a challenge to all sectors of society. Thousands of people of all ages are subjecting themselves to the harmful influences of drugs. They do so out of curiosity. for pleasure, or in order to deal with stressful events or painful experiences.

With the advent of modern civilization, human expectations regarding security and comfort have increased. Those expectations have been complicated, however, by a rise in social stress and uncertainty. Widespread problems related to the abuse of drugs and alcohol, particularly among youth, reflect this development and indicate that many individuals are suffering from an internal crisis.

According to the Baha'i perspective 1, the response to this internal crisis should be a systematic and realistic prevention Programme, emphasizing the importance of attitudes in dealing with problems such as drug abuse and alcoholism. Behavioral scientists agree that attitudes, more than knowledge, influence the initiation of behavior. Attitudes are learned early in life and adopted as a way of life. Acquired attitudes represent a person's values and the values guide a person's choice of behavior, such as whether to abuse drugs or to lead a drug-free life 2.

Individual reality is thought rather than material 3; thus, the use of intoxicating drugs is an impediment to the progress of mind and soul and is in direct conflict with the meaning and purpose of life. In Baha'i communities special emphasis is placed on early education and family life. The home is seen as an ideal place for early drug abuse prevention.

Cohen 4, reflecting on the causes of the rise of drug abuse in the world today, wonders whether human society lives in one of the most critical times in history and asks whether anguish is "so pervasive that multitudes must consume increasing quantities of narcotics, stimulants, depressants (including alcohol) and the other euphoriants to survive."

According to Cohen 4, there have been many distressing periods in history, such as the fall of the Roman Empire, the Dark Ages and, more recently, the two world wars, but there is no clear historical evidence to suggest that drug abuse problems were then so pervasive as they are at present. Humankind, however, has never been endowed with such favorable opportunities for progress as it is today; moreover, the disaster that drives individuals to drink and to use drugs is within them rather than in the outside world. In addition Cohen feels that this internal reality, although it does not necessarily correlate with what is happening outside, may reflect the external conditions.

In this author's view, an individual's internal insecurity and doubt may be a reflection of the external chaos and confusion, which are among many factors that can contribute to the onset of drug abuse. Contemporary society is undergoing rapid change, which often gives rise to confusion, uncertainty, anxiety and stress. Old concepts and values are breaking down and new ones are emerging in their place. Coping with stress in such a period of rapid change and development is a tedious process, from which the use of alcohol and drugs becomes an attractive avenue of escape.

In Baha'i communities, the prevention of drug abuse involves cooperation between the individual, the family and society.

Individual Responsibility

From the point of view of the individual, the basic principles presented below should be taken into consideration in developing a prevention Programme.

Sense of Purpose in Life

In order to be fully committed to a moral order, an individual needs to have a sense of purpose. According to Baha'i teachings love of God 5 provides a concept on the basis of which the energy of a person's self-centeredness is invested in the interest and well-being of others. Serving for the good of humankind is a highly praised vehicle for putting that interest into action. The Baha'i attempt to expand humanity's vision of itself to include areas beyond the material self. Just as a traveler visits cities and countries and becomes acquainted with other cultures, the human spirit, through the experiences of this world, acquires certain characteristics and virtues as it evolves 6. Bitter life experiences and the tests and trials in life provide challenges to individual growth. Drug abuse provides nothing but an illusionary excursion into a fantasy world without achieving any learning or developing any insight.

Sense of Human Worth

Self-esteem and respect for human worth and dignity play an important role in people's attitudes toward themselves. One of the most common factors involved in drug abuse around the world is the loss of self-esteem 7.

A sense of self-esteem and dignity can be cultivated in early childhood and maintained throughout life. It has been reported that "children who have positive views of themselves tend to act in a way that brings further success: they are able to persevere, to remain committed in the face of stress and adversity. Children who do not regard themselves highly react in the opposite way" 8. The latter are more likely to submit themselves to the destructive effects of drug abuse.

Freedom

The true meaning of freedom has been misunderstood in society. This is particularly true for substance abusers, who believe that they have the right to do whatever they please with their minds and bodies. Ironically, it is their drug dependence that ultimately deprives them of their personal liberty 2.

An individual's ability to evaluate circumstances objectively and to postpone immediate satisfaction for a future goal is an indication of maturity. Obedience to moral standards reinforces this ability to maintain self-discipline and self-control in order to fulfill personal objectives. The fundamental principle of adherence to the precepts of the prophet Bahá'u'lláh (the founder of the Baha'i faith) provides the cornerstone for the prevention of drug abuse and alcoholism in Baha'i communities around the world. According to Baha'i teachings , the consumption of alcoholic beverages, narcotic drugs, and substances not prescribed for medical purposes is forbidden. An individual's commitment to abstain from such practices is maintained by faith.

Participation in Work

An individual's relationship to the environment is dynamic and constantly changing 9. In Baha'i communities, each person is challenged to strive for excellence in all aspects of life, particularly in arts and sciences. Active participation in an occupation is encouraged and work in the spirit of service is considered a form of worshipping 1. This concept provides an impetus for personal growth and creativity and releases individual potential for serving humankind. It also counteracts apathy, boredom and a feeling of uselessness which are frequently encountered among persons who abuse drugs.

Spiritual Orientation

Spiritual orientation helps people to develop positive attitudes towards themselves and their environment. As a result, they are able to find meaning in life and are in a better position to deal with stressful situations.

Role of the Family

The prevention of drug abuse by providing a healthy family environment and properly educating children is of prime importance in Baha'i communities 10. One of the responsibilities of parents is to educate their children about moral and spiritual values and about facing the harsh realities of life.

By abstaining from using alcohol and illicit drugs, parents can set an example that will strongly influence their children's attitudes towards those substances. Love and unity within a family that strives for excellent relations can become the moving force for a positive and dynamic approach towards life and its challenges; children in such families learn that the use of alcohol and illicit drugs is not acceptable and that coping with the stress of daily life is a part of human experience that is associated with personal growth and maturity.

Society

One of the most important contributing factors to drug abuse, one that requires careful consideration, is the attitude of society towards the use of alcohol and drugs. Mention should also be made of the disintegration of traditional systems of values, the breakdown of the institution of marriage and family life, and the over-dependence of individuals on political and material power as a source of security. Moreover, illicit drug trafficking and the increased availability of illicit drugs, as well as the glamorization of psychoactive substances by the mass media, have complicated the task of prevention.

Presented below are some points that, from the point of view of society should be considered in developing a prevention Programme.

It is necessary to strengthen the individual's sense of self-esteem and dignity and to educate family members on the meaning of life and its purpose. Children's education should include not only physical and intellectual education but also spiritual aspects of life. Both the spiritual and the material needs of humanity must be recognized for progress and development to take place.

The dramatic technological development and materialistic orientation of modern society have resulted in not only considerable physical and material well-being, but also a loss of spiritual awareness. Approaches to the problems of human affairs and sufferings have become mechanical and materialistic, having lost the spiritual magnanimity that is needed for personal growth and progress. As a result, individuals have lost contact with their true selves. The use of drugs is thus an attempt to re-establish that contact by chemical means and to solve problems that are essentially human and spiritual in nature. For instance, happiness is a state of mind that can be earned or realized through useful and meaningful interpersonal relationships but cannot be induced by drugs.

The rise of competition for material achievements has encouraged a race for success and a low tolerance for failure. Consequently, some of those who are emotionally insecure or unstable turn to alcohol or drugs as a refuge against the bitter reality of their competitive lifestyles. Cooperation should replace competition, and consultation and harmony should replace confrontation and isolation, thus allowing a spirit of sharing and caring to prevail.

Education should be provided to people of all ages and socio-economic backgrounds to help them adopt more positive attitudes towards physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual and social aspects of health. Such education should cultivate a sense of purpose in life. It should encourage individuals to pursue activities in their occupations and to see that such activities contribute to their own well-being. Education should strive to encourage society to eliminate feelings of alienation and isolation, which are conducive to drug abuse.

Society should help individuals, particularly youth, to develop a sense of identity and to look for positive ways to deal with boredom and apathy. It has the responsibility of providing opportunities to stimulate and encourage creativity and useful work.

Society should help make less available drugs not intended for medical and scientific purposes. It should encourage persons who serve as role models, such as teachers, prominent celebrities, and leaders of society, to lead drug-free lives. The mass media should provide information and educational programmes for the prevention of drug abuse and alcoholism and should be discouraged from providing publicity for psychoactive substances. International cooperation aimed at limiting the cultivation, manufacture, distribution and use of drugs to medical and scientific purposes should be promoted. Current United Nations programmes to control drug abuse can only succeed if all Governments and all sectors of society firmly commit themselves to working together for this common cause.

Notes

1. Bahá'u'lláh and Abdu'l-Bahá, Baha'i World Faith (Wilmette, Illinois, Baha'i Publishing Trust, 1976).

2. A. M. Ghadirian, In Search of Nirvana: a New Perspective on Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Oxford, George Ronald, 1985).

3. Abdu'l-Bahá, The Reality of Man (Wilmette, Illinois, Baha'i Publishing Trust 1966), pp. 9-10.

4. S. Cohen, "Reflections on people and drugs," Drug Abuse and Alcoholism Newsletter. vol. 13, No. I (1984), pp. I -3.

5. Bahá'u'lláh, Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh (Wilmette, Illinois, Baha'i publishing Trust, 1963), p. 65.

6. Abdu'l-Bahá, Some Answered Questions (Wilmette, Illinois, Baha'i Publishing Trust, 1981), p. 200.

7. A. M. Mecca, "Primary prevention, an avenue we must pursue," Critical Concerns in the Field of Drug Abuse (New York, National Drug Abuse Conference, 1978), PP- 1-5.

8. "Prevention, the nation's health," APHA Newsletter. October 1975 (quoted by Mecca, loc. cit.).

9. D. C. Jordan, "In search of the supreme talisman," World Order, vol. 5, No. I (1970), pp. 12-20.

10. Bahá'u'lláh, Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh (Wilmette, Illinois, Baha'i Publishing Trust, 1966), pp. 259-260.

Pages

Subscribe to Development