Justice and Peace conference: democracy and the common good

Around 300 people are expected at July's annual conference of the National Justice and Peace Network from 15-17 July, but places are still available.

The theme is particularly relevant at this time. Justice, Power and Responsibility; How Can Democracy Work for the Common Good? takes up the challenge of how to empower people to take responsibility and participate in the decisions that shape our lives.

Jon Cruddas MP will set out a vision of politics which takes people beyond dependency without abandoning them to the mercy of the markets; Jenny Sinclair of Together for the Common Good will reflect on our responsibility to work for the common good, based on Catholic Social Teaching; Polly Jones of Global Justice Now will address the power of corporations and international trade; and Takura Gwatiyanya of Caritas Harare will look at developing democracy and participation in developing countries.

Workshops will explore: empowering those in poverty in the UK; empowering women in fragile states; the money system; tax dodging; how money and investments fuel wars; rethinking our notion of progress; local responses to fracking and food waste; engaging with minority communities; the role of the media; local energy co-ops; responding to the refugee crisis; homelessness; engaging with local politicians; improving social media skills.

There will be a programme of activities for children and young people, and a Just Fair with information and resources from many organisations.

Christine Allen of Christian Aid will chair the conference, and a panel discussion will be chaired by Simon Barrow of the Christian think tank Ekklesia.

*A few spaces are left at the conference. Contact Conference Administrator Ann Kelly on 020 7901 4864 or admin@justice-and-peace.org.uk Booking form at:http://justice-and-peace.org.uk/conference/

* The National Justice and Peace Network (NJPN), whose aims and efforts are accepted by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales, exists to encourage work for Justice and Peace by promoting liaison and communication among diocesan groups and individuals. A network of diocesan members, fieldworkers agency representatives and individuals is maintained through regular communications, open networking meetings and the organisation of a national annual conference. www.justice-and-peace.org.uk

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