Among the topics Raiser would like to discuss during their conversation are a number of political and ethical questions concerning the settlement of conflicts and the possibilities for non-violent forms of conflict resolution. The three specific problem areas on which the general secretary would like to have a more detailed discussion are the planning of humanitarian interventions, the defence of human rights through the use of military force and the use of sanctions to bring pressure to bear on governments.

In this connection, Raiser also wishes to inform the UN Secretary-General about the WCC’s planned Decade to Overcome Violence and to assure him of the WCC’s support for the UN in the search for a viable response to these issues.

A further possible point of discussion is the new role of religious organizations on the international scene. Raiser believes there are many signs to indicate that religion is re-emerging from the private sphere and once again becoming a factor in public life. Public institutions and business enterprises are also showing a marked interest in a dialogue with religious organizations, he says. Another notable trend is the growing interest in inter-religious dialogue prompted by the need to develop an ethic that holds for the world community a whole.

Contact: Kristine Greenaway, Director of Communication, tel: (+41.22) 791.61.68