Peacebuilding Statement of Purpose

Catholic Relief Services staff and partners crafted this Statement of Purpose to complement the agency vision that solidarity will transform the world to: cherish and uphold the sacredness and dignity of every person; commit to and practice peace, justice and reconciliation; and celebrate and protect the integrity of all creation.

Peacebuilding:

• Is a process of changing unjust structures through right-relationships

• Transforms the way people, communities and societies live, heal and structure their relationships to promote justice and peace

• Creates a space in which mutual trust, respect and interdependence is fostered

Within CRS, peacebuilding is:

• Rooted in CRS' guiding principles and engages the local church, religious institutions, organizations and other actors in a mutual process of dialogue and transformation

• Is both a broad conceptual understanding that provides guidance for changing unjust systems and practices, as well as specific activities that change attitudes and behaviors to promote peace, tolerance and reconciliation

• Essential for transforming the world through solidarity