(6th February 2008, UEM) Promoting economic and social justice, fostering peace and overcoming violence: such are issues churches all over the world are dealing with in times of increasing crises and persisting human rights violations.

The international UEM workshop »Challenges for the Church in a Changing World« takes into account experiences of churches in Africa, Asia, Latin America and Germany in these fields of work. The workshop, taking place in Batam (Indonesia) from 10th until 17th Feburary also aims at improving the cooperation of churches in the human rights advocacy work. It is the fourth workshop of its kind, co-ordinated by the department of Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation of the UEM. 

The Batam island itself is an example of the challenges associated with economic growth and free-trade economy. Situated near Singapore, Batam has been established as generator for Indonesian exports in the past 30 years.

In only four decades, the population on Batam has increased from 2000 people to an estimated million. Favourable investment options are designed to attract international companies. The consequences of the radical industrialisation may be described as dramatic: environment pollution, humiliating working conditions, child labour, human trafficking and prostitution are the side effects of this profitable econonomic development.

Speech by Bishop Dr. Zephania Kameeta (PDF): »Religion, Culture and Human Rights - How to strengthen Human Rights in a globalized world«