The WCC announces a transition in its representation in Colombia, appointing Jenny Neme Neiva as deputy special envoy for peace dialogue, with Dr. Humberto Shikiya transitioning to a senior advisory role. Dr. Fernando Enns will now serve as special envoy, enhancing the WCC’s commitment to peace amid a humanitarian crisis in Catatumbo. Meetings are planned to further this mission.
The World Council of Churches (WCC) announces a transition in its representation in Colombia, alongside organizations such as the United Nations and the Organization of American States, actively participating in the peace dialogue with the Colombian government and the FARC-EP.
Jenny Neme Neiva from the Christian Mennonite Church of Colombia assumes the role of WCC’s deputy special envoy to the peace dialogue. Neiva, a recognized figure among key stakeholders and a resident of Colombia, will oversee the representation of the WCC in discussions relevant to the peace process, leveraging her extensive experience in peacebuilding.
Dr. Humberto Shikiya, who has served as the special envoy for two years, will now become a senior advisor for peacebuilding in Colombia, assisting Neiva in her responsibilities. Shikiya emphasized Neiva’s impactful experience as a woman of faith in peace and reconciliation efforts, noting its significance to the process.
In addition, Dr. Fernando Enns will take on the role of special envoy. Although not residing in Colombia, Enns will travel to the country periodically to provide strategic insights. This change integrates WCC’s dedication to the Colombian peace initiative into its decision-making framework.
The transition highlights the growing humanitarian crisis in Catatumbo, underscoring the urgency of WCC’s mission. Peter Prove, Director of the WCC Commission of the Churches on International Affairs, stated that the WCC reaffirms its commitment to achieving a just and sustainable peace within Colombia.
The WCC team will convene in Colombia from 17-21 March to engage with government officials and UN representatives, as well as participate in meetings with the consortium related to the Inter-ecclesial Dialogue for Peace (DiPaz) and the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission.
The WCC is undergoing significant transitions in its representation in Colombia, appointing experienced individuals to ensure effective engagement in the peace dialogue process. The new appointments of Jenny Neme Neiva and Dr. Fernando Enns aim to enhance the representation of the WCC while addressing critical humanitarian circumstances. The ongoing commitment of the WCC towards sustainable peace in Colombia is clear, and future meetings are set to reinforce these endeavors.
Original Source: www.oikoumene.org
