During a global conference held in South Africa on 10 May, World Council of Churches (WCC) program director for Public Witness and Diakonia Rev. Dr Kenneth Mtata shared reflections on the role of the WCC in fostering “just peace” in the Holy Land.

 “Today, the witness of the WCC and the broad ecumenical movement is deeply challenged because of the deepened violence and dehumanization resulting from the recent violence on Gaza,” said Mtata. “What should the WCC do to partner with like-minded organizations to continue pursuing ‘just peace’ in Palestine and Israel?”

Mtata referred to a statement entitled “Seeking Justice and Peace for All in the Middle East” from the WCC 11th Assembly in 2022.

The statement called for “the worldwide ecumenical fellowship of churches to consult and reflect on an alternative policy, perspective and comprehensive solution for Palestine/Israel where all people have equal rights before the law, as opposed to the current systems of control, exclusion and discrimination.”

Mtata also noted that, in June 2022, the WCC central committee expressed concern that “discrimination against Palestinians is overt and systemic, and the ongoing half-century-long occupation continues to contradict the equal human dignity and human rights of Palestinians living under this system of control, while the response of the international community continues to reflect egregious double standards.” 

The central committee also expressed its profound regret that “so many apparently insurmountable obstacles have been placed in the way of the longstanding commitment and desire for a just two-state solution in accordance with international resolutions and established WCC policy.”

Mtata added: “I am here, on behalf of the WCC, to draw insights from this international conference graced by highly distinguished participants from different parts of the world, including Palestinians.”

Many participants in the conference came from WCC member churches or belong to WCC partner organizations. 

“The WCC considers itself to be among critical allies here,” Mtata said. “While different Israeli and Palestinian groups may have varying visions for coexistence, the WCC will continue to support that vision which promotes just and peaceful coexistence consistent with international law."