PRESS RELEASE

International faith-based network ACT Alliance has called for substantive commitment to upholding universal democratic principles and respect for human rights as the social and political turmoil in Brazil risks worsening.

The Governing Board of ACT Alliance, a network representing 140 churches and faith-based organisations working together in over 100 countries, also called for renewed commitment from all political and societal actors to work towards peaceful resolution of the issues, saying that increasing polarisation and radicalisation in the country could risk escalating towards violence.

“We express our deep concern over the threat to the democratic state of law in Brazil, as respect for democratic principles is relevant not only for Brazilian citizens, but for the citizens of the world,” said John Nduna, General Secretary of ACT Alliance. “As ACT Alliance we call for commitment from the country’s political and societal actors to resolving the political process through the promotion of a wider national dialogue, in order to overcome the crisis that the country faces, and above all, ensure the deepest respect for democracy as a universal value.”

The ecumenical movement in Brazil, which includes ACT Alliance members working in the country, has historically played a significant role in addressing the defence of human rights and the democratic process.

“Our ecumenical identity drives us to work for respect for democracy, respect for religious diversity, and respect for the rule of law and human rights,” said Nduna. “Therefore we call for commitment to a resolution of the process through dialogue and peaceful means.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1. ACT Alliance is a coalition of 140 churches and faith-based organisations working together in over 100 countries to create positive and sustainable change in the lives of poor and marginalised people regardless of their religion, politics, gender, sexual orientation, race or nationality in keeping with the highest international codes and standards.
2. ACT Alliance is supported by 25,000 staff from member organisations and mobilises about $1.5 billion for its work each year in the areas of humanitarian aid, development and advocacy.
3. For more information contact Carlos Rauda at carlos.rauda@actalliance.org , tel: +503 785 692 30 or visit www.actalliance.org