An era of systematic violations of human rights came to an end in Paraguay following the fall of the dictatorship of General Alfredo Stroessner (1954-1989), who headed one of the most brutal regimes on the continent. After the first elections were held, the peasant movement quickly mobilized to address unequal land distribution in the country, where only 400 families own 90 percent of the land, even though most of the population makes its living from agriculture. Since that time, peasants have been working for land reforms to change this situation.
In the run up to general elections in Honduras on November 24, Development and Peace has challenged the government of Canada for signing the Canada-Honduras Free Trade Accord (FTA).
From September 1st to September 8th, 2013, a mission that included bishops from the Democratic Republic of the Congo visited Madagascar. The group was made up of the Most Rev. Fulgence Muteba Mugalu, Bishop of Kilwa Kasenga; the Most Rev. Ruvezi Kashala Gaston, Bishop of Sakania Kipushi; Father David Luhaka of the diocese of Kalemie Kirungu; and Fidèle Banza Mutombo, Development Advisor for Community Radio of Katanga (RCK).
The conflict in Syria has intensified over the last few months. With increased violence, people are continuing to flee the country. However, there are those who can’t leave and as such, they must cope with ever-worsening and arduous conditions. There are now 4.5 million people within the country who are displaced, which is the equivalent of about 20% of the population. In addition, ongoing hostilities have destroyed infrastructure and left cities isolated and without basic necessities – including food. What little is left, is unaffordable for much of the population.
Several members of Development and Peace along with two Regional Animators are currently on a solidarity tour of Madagascar to visit with local organizations supported by Development and Peace. Over the next few weeks, they will be writing about their visits and experiences.
Several members of Development and Peace along with two Regional Animators are currently on a solidarity tour of Madagascar to visit with local organizations supported by Development and Peace. Over the next few weeks, they will be writing about their visits and experiences.
We had the opportunity to go to the Antananarivo (Tana) Cathedral for an audience with Archbishop Odon of Tana. During our visit, he commented that family is a critical element for any positive, successful development in Madagascar.
Several members of Development and Peace along with two Regional Animators are currently on a solidarity tour of Madagascar to visit with local organizations supported by Development and Peace. Over the next few weeks, they will be writing about their visits and experiences.
Several members of Development and Peace along with two Regional Animators are currently on a solidarity tour of Madagascar to visit with local organizations supported by Development and Peace. Over the next few weeks, they will be writing about their visits and experiences.
When 154 members of the United Nations General Assembly, including Canada, voted in favour of a universal Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) on April 2nd, 2013, it was a historic step towards instilling a culture of peace worldwide.
“The story of Africa has been documented by the hunter, and not by the leopard,” said Portuguese academic, Boaventura de Sousa, who has called for history to be retold from the perspective of the victims of colonialism, genocide and unbridled capitalism.
