Papel das igrejas protestantes no processo de paz em Moçambique 1980 - 1992

Abstract

This work analyzes the contribution that Protestant Churches made to the Peace Process in Mozambique. The last 20 years of Mozambique's history were characterized by a continuous war between the Government and Renamo. This war caused many deaths and destruction of infrastructure, which, combined with adverse weather conditions, led to a difficult economic situation in the country and a political and social crisis. Between 1980 and 1982, in order to face the difficult situation in the country, the Frelimo Party promoted a series of initiatives aimed at a broad reconciliation with the different sectors of society, in order to guarantee a secure social development. It is on this basis that the Frelimo Party met with the various religious congregations in 1982. This meeting marked the beginning of a turning point in relations with the Churches. In 1984, the Government signed the Nkomati Accords with South Africa in order to guarantee peace. The Nkomati Accord did not work, violence increased in the country. The Churches, as they had tried before, once again drew the Government's attention to the need to reach a negotiating agreement. In 1987 the Government gave the go-ahead to the Churches and the latter to get involved in negotiations with the aim of creating a platform for dialogue. This platform was created after several rounds of negotiations and peace was achieved in 1992. In this process of seeking peace, the Protestant Churches played a pioneering role, although the final process took place under the auspices of the Catholic Church(TRADUÇÃO NOSSA)