Legitimizing Local Leadership In Interfaith Relief and Development

Abstract

The traditional methods of 20th century Western aid have proven ineffective. In addition to persistent poverty and disease, 21st century relief and development efforts face global environmental changes, the impact of globalization, and rapid growth in non-Western nations. Modern methods must respect indigenous culture and legitimize local leadership in order to be effective and sustainable. World religions in particular, and the variety of practices and interpretations within each of them, must be incorporated for needs and priorities to be accurately determined. Common ground in ethics, with each remaining true to the core values of his/her faith, must be found in order to live and problem-solve together.