On Discourse

Material and Spiritual Dimensions of Life

Last month the Baha'i International Community, the Baha'i world's representation to the UN, made a powerful statement at the United Nations Commission on Social Development. The Commission meets annually to discuss issues of global poverty and employment. May Akale, the Baha'i representative to the Commission, noted that, "Efforts to eradicate poverty must be guided by a vision of human prosperity in the fullest sense of the term – a dynamic coherence between the material and spiritual dimensions of human life."

The oral statement presented went on to say that, "Vibrant communities are also agents of change. Their vitality derives from the degree to which they are able to develop and strengthen the capacities of individuals and institutions of which they are comprised. The development of human capacities for justice, honesty,
cooperation, and freedom from prejudice, promotes bonds of trust and reciprocity that form the basis of community life. The obligations of the community extend to the provision of employment and fair wages, health care, rest and recreation. In this way, communities can improve the social and economic life of a population."

To read the full statement click here.

To read more about the Baha'i International Community's work at the UN, click here.