FYI 2007-3

T he Alienation of Moral Political Leaders

Our concern is with the alienation of moral, abel-type political leaders and others not
categorized as "religious leaders."

"Leaders in religion and civil society have discovered, pioneered, and implemented a great
many principles, strategies and actions for the realization of peace. Such progressive, peace
oriented approaches to human relations, and efforts for the dissolution of conflict are often
absent, however, among political leaders, elected officials, actions of "states," and others with
power.

Peace activists are often critical of political leaders.

Political processes are often blamed for conflict. In reality, a great many statesmen and
women, and elected officials are every bit as high minded, spiritual, and peace seeking as even
the most vigorous peace seekers in religion and civil society. Unfortunately, the political
profession carries a great many restraints and constraints unique to its trade which complicate
implementing classical dynamics of reconciliation. Examples of constraints include remaining
electable, legal liability for apologies, exploitation of conciliatory statements by political
opponents, and so forth.

The purpose of this overture is to have contributors from several sectors to begin
analysis designed to solve these sorts of problems faced by peace visionaries in political
professions.

Certainly there are some who say only those without an entrenched self interest in the status quo
will venture out but obviously times being what they are power brokers of today are most
desirable for relevant change. How can peace leaders in various sectors support political figures
who want to take politically risky steps in pursuit of peace? The job of peace seekers is not
merely to come up with ideas and strategies, but further, to make it ever more possible for people
in power to safely adopt and implement such strategies.” Submitters who will address this
important question in our discussion may include elected officials, religious leaders, media
leaders, representatives from NGO think tanks and lobby groups."

We certainly welcome with open arms retired professionals in these fields to offer there
wealth of experience as well.

Contact your local UPF or OCLC representative._______________________________.

Rev. Steve Evans

(613) 877-22633
0422-707-181
steve.evans@upfo.org
Melbourne, Australia

Adapted from a presentation by Dr. Frank Kaufman of the IFWP for the UPF.