GC38 Human Security (2003H772)

Commanded as Christians to “beat our swords into ploughshares, and our spears into pruning hooks” and that “nations shall not learn war any more” (Isaiah 2:2-4); 

Further commanded to love our enemies and do good to those who hate us (Luke 6:27); 

Understanding that the safety and security of persons is the goal of national and international security efforts;

Noting that many activities in pursuit of national security do not in fact serve to protect civilians; 

Aware that a stable social and political peace globally cannot be created or sustained by repression or military superiority;

Understanding that human well-being can be achieved through the development of social, political and environmental conditions that support the welfare of people inside and outside the state;

Comprehending that six core pillars sustain peace and justice: development; democracy; human rights; a healthy, sustainable, physical environment; war prevention and peace-building; and disarmament limiting the instruments of force;

Understanding further that Canada’s contribution to international peace and security is not measured only by the extend of military spending but by our total contribution to these pillars sustaining peace and justice;

Noting that our security is also dependent on a rules-based international order that promotes justice and equity internationally;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of Parkdale United Church, through Calgary Presbytery and Alberta and Northwest Conference petition the 38th General Council of The United Church of Canada to call upon the Government of Canada to build security by focussing significantly increased support for:

1. Equitable global economic development,

2. The promotion of human rights and democratic governance,

3. Environmental protection,

4. The development of Canadian capacity to support war prevention and peace-building activities,

5. Arms control and disarmament agreements, their implementation and verification (economic equity and sufficiency), and

6. The promotion of efforts toward the equitable enforcement of international law and standards.

GC38 2003 ROP, pp. 66, 338