The WCC has appointed Jenny Neme Neiva as deputy special envoy for the Colombian peace dialogue, while Dr. Humberto Shikiya becomes a senior advisor. Dr. Fernando Enns will serve as special envoy, providing strategic guidance. These changes highlight the WCC’s commitment to supporting a just and sustainable peace in Colombia, especially during a humanitarian crisis in Catatumbo.
The World Council of Churches (WCC), in collaboration with the United Nations, the Organization of American States, and the Roman Catholic Church, plays a vital role in the peace dialogue between Colombia’s government and the FARC-EP’s Estado Mayor de los Bloques. Recently, Jenny Neme Neiva of the Christian Mennonite Church of Colombia has been appointed as the deputy special envoy. Neiva, recognized among key stakeholders, will lead the WCC’s representation in peace discussions and bring her extensive experience in Colombian peacebuilding to this crucial role.
Dr. Humberto Shikiya, who has acted as WCC’s special envoy for two years, will now serve as a senior advisor for peacebuilding in Colombia, assisting Neiva in her initiatives. Shikiya emphasized Neiva’s unique contributions by stating, “Jenny’s experience in peace and reconciliation work as a woman of faith… will contribute in a distinctive way to the peace process.” He highlighted her commitment to gender justice, which is vital for fostering women’s participation in peace-building efforts across various regions.
Additionally, Dr. Fernando Enns will now hold the title of special envoy. Though not stationed in Colombia, Enns, a member of WCC’s governing bodies, will conduct periodic visits to offer strategic guidance, thus enhancing the Council’s dedication to Colombia’s peace framework within its decision-making processes.
These appointments occur during a humanitarian crisis in Catatumbo, underscoring the WCC’s urgent mission. Peter Prove, director of the WCC Commission of the Churches on International Affairs, remarked, “Through this reconfigured and expanded representation in the search for peace in Colombia, the WCC reaffirms its steadfast commitment to supporting a just and sustainable peace.”
The WCC team is scheduled to convene in Colombia from March 17 to 21, where they will engage with government and UN representatives and participate in consortium meetings, collaborating with the Inter-ecclesial Dialogue for Peace (DiPaz) and the Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission.
In summary, the WCC has made significant changes to its representation in the Colombian peace dialogue by appointing Jenny Neme Neiva as deputy special envoy, while Dr. Humberto Shikiya transitions to a senior advisory role. With these appointments, the WCC aims to strengthen its engagement in peace efforts, particularly advocating for gender justice in peace conversations. Dr. Fernando Enns will also contribute strategically, ensuring that the WCC maintains a strong presence amid ongoing humanitarian challenges in Colombia.
Original Source: www.oikoumene.org
