Books and Publications

The Churches in International Affairs: Reports 1995-1998, Edited by Dwain C. Epps, WCC, Geneva, ISBN: 2-8254-1328-3.

This seventh volume of The Churches in International Affairs reproduces documents related to the work the Commission of the Churches on International Affairs (CCIA) of the World Council of Churches (WCC). The contents cover the development of ecumenical policy and actions taken by the World Council of Churches (WCC) in the field of international affairs between 1995 and 1998.

The WCC strives to achieve a consistency in what it says on particular subjects; current opinion is based on and grows out of past policies. Maverick comment rarely appears. This book provides clear evidence of this approach, and is also a marvellous resource for anyone who wishes to know what the WCC thinks about a whole range of complex and sensitive issues.
Over two hundred documents are helpfully arranged by subject area; the material in the regional section is listed by region and then by nation.

For the first time, documents are reproduced in the original languages with, where necessary, English language translations.

In an introduction, Rev. Dwain Epps, who was the CCIA director for the period the documents cover, admits that, "Experience shows that only very seldom have WCC statements, appeals, studies and programmes had a notable impact on the immediate course of events. Results, if they come, are often only seen after decades of patient work." However, Dwain Epps believes the churches' determination to stay together even in the face of conflict of opinion and political adversity is itself a witness to the redeeming power of the Holy Spirit throughout the whole world.

Renewing our Voice: Code of Good Practice for NGOs Responding to HIV/AIDS, by Julia Cabassi, edited by David Wilson, ISBN 0 85598 553 4.

This code is published by The NGO HIV/AIDS Code of Practice Project, which is a joint initiative of eleven non-governmental organizations (NGOs) including the World Council of Churches and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

The code runs to 110 pages and sets out a number of guiding principles that apply a human rights approach to the range of HIV/AIDS-specific health, development and humanitarian work being done by NGOs. These principles provide a common framework applicable to all NGOs engaged in responding to HIV/AIDS, and are embodied within good practice principles that can be used to guide the work of NGOs. There is a chapter on key resources available, such as tool kits and manuals that can assist in putting the principles into practice. There is also information about the process of signing on to the code, and its implementation.

Dr. Musimbi Kanyoro, Secretary General of the World YWCA launched Renewing Our Voice in Geneva on World AIDS day (1 December). Speaking on behalf of more than 160 organizations that have already endorsed the code, Dr Kanyoro said it was an attempt by NGOs to use their collective power to make a difference. "The code will enable us to learn from each other and to enhance collaborative work for greater effectiveness", Dr Kanyoro explained.

Commenting on the lack of control that women and girls have over their sexual choices, Dr Kanyoro added, "The code provides a framework for advocating for a legislative and policy environment that promotes the rights of women and girls in order to shift the dynamics that underscore women's vulnerability to HIV/AIDS. In this regard, the code will enhance the work of the Global Coalition on Women and AIDS, which includes many NGOs."

Representatives of ECLOF International attended the launch, and all national ECLOF committees have been sent a copy of the code.

Renewing Our Voice is being distributed by Oxfam GB, and is available from Oxfam Publishing, 274 Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 7DZ, UK; Tel: + 44 (0) 1865 311311; e-mail: publish@oxfam.org.uk; Web: www.oxfam.org.uk/publications and from its agents and representatives throughout the world.

Renewing Our Voice is also available on the Web site of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies: www.ifrc.org/what/health/hivaids/code/.