Sunday, March 24, 2019

Politicians United for a Better World

The Korean headquarters of the political movement for unity was newly launched, based on the Focolare spirituality that creates a better world through love and unity. A Catholic Peace Weekly editorial and article gives readers hope for a new vision in the political world.

The political campaign for unity began in Italy as a movement to create a happy world for everyone, inspired by Chiara Lubic the founder of the Focolare movement. The  Focolare movement began in 1943 but entered the political sphere in 1996. Currently, about 3,000 politicians from 20 countries: Europe, South America, and Korea are participating. South Korea began preparations in 2004, it's the only member country in Asia.

Politicians who participated in the opening ceremony on March 6th pledged to work with citizens to carry out various activities for reconciliation, peace, and unity. Everyone knows the purpose of politics is to promote the common good of society. This is also the biggest challenge for politicians. Pursuing peace through dialogue, promotion of reconciliation, solidarity and overcoming personal and party tactics is not an easy.
 

Political division, economic inequality, class struggle, and environmental destruction are all present realities—'communication' is the virtue to be given priority by politicians. In particular, politicians working for the common good, need to realize that progress, and development should be understood not only in economic terms but oneness with all the citizens; to make the poor, alienated, and future generations happy.

To this end, the politicians in the Korean movement have focused on 'livelihood legislation' and decided to cooperate more with NGOs. Hold international seminars on international concerns, discuss plans for improving inter-Korean relations, show interest in North Korean refugees, work with international NGOs, and participate in East Asian reconciliation and peace efforts.
 

If there is no hope, politics is dead. The greatest gift of hope is peace. We must remember the realization of a peaceful world is the spirit behind the political movement for unity.  Pope Francis said: "A good politician teaches us to live for the good of God and neighbors."