On February 24, the one-year anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Secretary General of the World Council of Churches (WCC), Rev. Professor Jerry Pillay, expressed deep concern over the ongoing hostilities that show no signs of ending soon.
Source: oikoumene
“The horror of this war is manifested in the huge loss of life, especially among civilians, including children and refugees,” Mr. Pillay said.
He emphasized that critical civilian infrastructure, such as schools, hospitals and water systems, have suffered extensive damage, often as a result of deliberate attacks.
The reverend emphasized that armed aggression is accompanied by war crimes and crimes against humanity, resulting in the loss of life, destruction of communities and loss of hope for the future.
A call for peace and the rule of law
“We reiterate the need for dialogue and negotiation to achieve a just and sustainable peace,” Pillay said.
He emphasized that the WCC supports all legitimate initiatives aimed at establishing a lasting peace, while condemning any attempts to justify the aggression and violations of international law that have already been committed.
The Secretary General also emphasized that disregard for the rule of law only provokes further aggression.
“The legitimacy of the peace process directly depends on the participation of the victim of aggression in negotiations and decision-making,” he said.
The AUCC calls for an immediate ceasefire and the unity of Christians in the fight against violence and injustice. Pillay concluded his speech with the words:
“We pray for the peace to which our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ calls us.”
