Flora Teckie
The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty on 17 October promotes awareness of the urgent need to eradicate this global problem.
Poverty alleviation, and the eradication of gross disparities between rich and poor, are linked directly to the consciousness of the oneness of humanity – the oneness of all races, nations, tribes, and religions.
Poverty alleviation should be addressed from a human rights perspective and linked to justice and obligation, rather than charity.
The Bahá’í International Community states: “A new economic order can be founded only on an unshakable conviction of the oneness of mankind. Discussions aimed at solving problems related to extreme poverty based on the premise that we are one human family rapidly expand beyond the current vocabulary of economics.
“They demand a wider context, one which anticipates the emergence of a global system of relationships resting on the principles of equity and justice.”
The belief in the principle of the oneness of the human family implies that social and economic justice must be observed both within and between nations. It implies recognition of the equality of men and women. It implies racial, ethnic, national, and religious harmony; and the willingness to serve humanity.
It is the Bahá’í view that “So long as disunity, antagonism and provincialism characterise the social, political, and economic relations within and among nations a global, sustainable pattern of development cannot be established.”
Over a century ago Bahá'u'lláh warned: “The well-being of mankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly established.”
Only through genuine unity, understanding, and harmony among the diverse peoples and nations of the world, can a sustainable global society be established.
Furthermore, it is the Bahá’í view that extremes of both wealth and poverty are not conducive to the creation of just societies, and must be eliminated.
The human and material resources at mankind’s disposal must be used for the long-term good of all, not for the short-term advantage of a few.
To create just and united communities – in which all individuals are able to meet their basic human needs, and where people of diverse backgrounds cooperate and live in harmony – will require a significant reorientation of individual and collective goals and a profound transformation in attitudes and behaviours.
A large share of the responsibility for poverty eradication rests with the individuals themselves. Although there are many reasons for poverty, there is also a dimension to it that relates to individual values and attitudes.
For example, the subjugation of girls and women, or the lack of value of education, aggravate the conditions of poverty. On the other hand, qualities such as honesty, willingness to work, and cooperation help greatly, when members of society trust that they are protected by standards of justice, and assured of benefits that apply equally to all.
The individual, the Bahá’í International Community statement advocates “must be helped to reclaim his dignity and sense of self-worth, must be encouraged to gain confidence to improve his condition and strive to realise his potential.
“Beyond the achievement of personal well-being, he must be nurtured to become a source of social good — of peace, happiness, and advantage to those around him. It is at the level of service to others that our humanity achieves its highest expression”, and institutions: “must serve as channels through which the talents and energies of individuals can be harnessed in service to humanity. Resources that help to develop this individual and institutional capacity represent a true source of wealth to the community”.
Teckie is a professional architect, a Bahá’í Faith follower, and spiritual columnist