nd dign e a ity lif fo l r l a u l F l Global Strategy 2015-2018 A n fra tio mework for ac Introduction A framework for action We know the world can be changed for We believe that the world must be transformed the better for the better. What looks impossible can become possible if we all seek transformation. This includes those with power, wealth and influence, as well as those most affected by injustice. Transformation is about change in ourselves and in our relationships with one another. Right relations are needed in all levels – locally, nationally and globally. We need to actively seek these social, economic and political changes, but can only do so with the help of God. With this second global strategy for ACT Alliance, we commit to doing our part in this transformation to attain full life and dignity for all. This will require ACT/Paul Jeffrey ACT/Paul every part of the alliance – all members and all alliance structures – to find their place and do their Contents 1 Introduction Strategic aims utmost to make this strategy successful. As such, We know the world can be changed 6 Strategic aim 1 Human dignity all parts of the alliance will be asked to develop for the better 8 Strategic aim 2 Community resilience work plans that operationalise this strategy in their 2 The world we seek to change is itself changing 10 Strategic aim 3 Environmental sustainability particular context. 3 An alliance-wide promise Full life and dignity for all 12 Enabling aim A robust alliance 4 Who we are Our vision and mission 5 We are inspired by ACT Alliance Global strategy 2015-2018 1 A framework for action Introduction Introduction A framework for action ACT/Paul Jeffrey ACT/Paul We see how economic power is gradually shifting from the US and Many look inwards, to their cultural or religious values, to make An alliance-wide promise The world Europe to the growing economies in the global East and the South. sense of these developments. For some it means fundamentalism Emerging economies play new roles as donors and in international or a return to national interests; for others it means a renewed sense Full life and dignity for all trade, and are challenged with growing inequalities within their of purpose, community and direction. We believe that interfaith own countries. The increasing mobility and power of capital makes religious leadership can become a game changer, shifting the we seek to ACT Alliance has its roots firmly planted in it more difficult for governments to safeguard human dignity and context from one of deprivation to one of development, from conflict the common good for its populations through public policies and to reconciliation and peace, and from consumerism to citizenship strong, faith-based communities, a structure change is itself taxation and for global institutions to govern effectively. and dignity. that values local ownership. We engage in Several countries and regions are plagued by protracted resource It is in this changing world that we must engage and commit quality, life-saving action and we work with conflicts, war-lordism, large displacements and shrinking space ourselves in order to bring about positive change to those most communities, providing accountable assistance for civil society organisations, adding to the already growing affected by poverty and injustice. as they recover from emergencies, rebuild their changing complexity of emergencies and sustainable development. livelihoods and transform their lives. Our generation is the wealthiest in human These realities result in human rights violations and protracted emergencies. Political motives and militarisation of aid remains a We have all been promised, through Jesus Christ, a life of history. Yet ironically, wealth is more unevenly concern. Major changes in development and humanitarian finance abundance (John 10:10). This fullness of life is meant for all distributed worldwide than ever. There is no are foreseen. people – including those oppressed, living in poverty, struggling excuse for the continued presence of poverty, Climate change, population growth, rapid and unplanned with disease or suffering hunger. This promise is made for hunger, deprivation, over-consumption urbanisation as well as food and water insecurity leave communities current and future generations. and exploitation of the most vulnerable. increasingly at risk of crisis. Extreme weather events are reported In all that we do, we mobilise the power within the individuals Inequalities and lack of social protection to intensify and cause increasingly climate-induced displacement. and communities themselves. This is why we build resilience, – especially in middle income and poor These developments signal that planetary boundaries have been why we base our work within a firm commitment to maintaining countries – continue to rise. surpassed, posing a great challenge for protection of the global human dignity, and why we seek sustainability. We make this commons and the rights of future generations. promise together. This strategy is for every part of the alliance. 2 ACT Alliance Global strategy 2015-2018 ACT Alliance Global strategy 2015-2018 3 A framework for action Introduction Introduction A framework for action ACT/Paul Jeffrey ACT/Paul Christof Krackhardt ACT/DKH/ Who we are Our vision We are inspired by Action by Churches Together (ACT) Alliance is United in the common task of all Christians to manifest God’s Love We express God’s unconditional love for all people and for all Accountability We are accountable to affected communities, a global alliance of churches and church-related unconditional love for all people, ACT Alliance works towards a creation partners, donors, churches and one another organisations committed to working ecumenically world community where all God’s creation lives with dignity, justice, in the areas of humanitarian response, development peace and full respect for human rights and the environment. Hope We inspire action to transform the world to reflect the Effectiveness We maximise effective action by combining the skills, and advocacy. kingdom of God assets and capabilities of local communities and ACT members through partnerships and evidence-based learning ACT Alliance membership includes 146 churches and church- Humanity We address human suffering and believe all people are related organisations from over 70 countries, the majority from the Our mission born free and equal in dignity and rights Partnership: We are encouraged by our strength together, and in our global south. ACT members work in 140 countries around the world. As churches and church-related organisations, we work together journeying together we strive for transparent and honest partnerships. Being present in poor and vulnerable communities and having for positive and sustainable change in the lives of people affected Impartiality We do not take sides in conflict, but build bridges local knowledge makes it possible for our members to operate by poverty and injustice through coordinated and effective between people and stand with the poor and oppressed ACT Alliance is a member of the Standing Committee for in difficult and sensitive contexts. ACT Alliance is rooted in the humanitarian, development and advocacy work. Humanitarian Response (SCHR), International Council of Voluntary ecumenical movement, and as a specialized ministry in relief and Non-discrimination We make no distinction and strongly oppose Agencies (ICVA), one of the original sponsors of the Sphere Project development, we have a strong and deepening connection with the any discrimination on the basis of nationality, race, sex, gender and is a signatory to the Code of Conduct for the International World Council of Churches. identity, sexual orientation, religious belief, class or political opinion Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Disaster Relief. The ACT Alliance secretariat attained HAP certification in 2013. 4 ACT Alliance Global strategy 2015-2018 ACT Alliance Global strategy 2015-2018 5 A framework for action Strategic aims “We believe that all persons are created in the image of God.1” STRATEGIC AIM 1 Human dignity We believe God created all people as equals, with ACT Alliance exists within, among and in solidarity with those dignity, worth and the right to fullness of life. We living in poverty, the oppressed and silenced, those seeking justice WHAT WILL HAVE CHANGED uphold people as agents of change in their own lives and access to political processes. We stand for fair distribution of Vision 2018 and place human dignity at the core of our work by resources and opportunities. There is no human dignity for any promoting human rights, addressing inequalities, of us while great inequalities and on-going need and suffering ensuring accountability and overcoming proliferate in a world of plenty. n ACT member development and humanitarian discrimination, stigma and exclusion. Human programmes support individuals and communities dignity is inherent and inalienable to all. It compels with whom we work to play a strong role in defining STRATEGIES their priorities and participating in decisions that us to promote the norms and principles of human n Rights-based approach Promote and speak out for human determine their vision for the future rights as common standards of achievement for all rights in national, regional and international arenas. We prioritise people and nations. activities that advance equality and inclusiveness, particularly for n Gender equality is central