D096 Support for Good Governance
Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring,
That the 79th General Convention is concerned about a worldwide surge in autocratic governments; and be it further
Resolved, That the 79th General Convention affirms that governments function best when they are responsive, participatory, and transparent, and ensure adequate protection for minorities; and be it further
Resolved, That the 79th General Convention encourages the Office of Government Relations to partner with Anglicans and Anglican provinces globally to support one another in advocating for good governance and free and fair participation of its citizens in civic processes; and be it further
Resolved, That the 79th General Convention encourages individual Episcopalians, parishes and dioceses in all provinces of The Episcopal Church to engage their own governments and civic institutions to be responsive, transparent, and participatory, and urge their governments to promote these principles of good governance globally.
Explanation
Recent trends show that there is a rise of autocratic governments across the globe, and principles of human rights and good governance that are essential to economic, political, and social advancement of nation states are increasingly being compromised. Episcopalians in all contexts of The Episcopal Church can be effective advocates for governments that respect the dignity of all people, ensure the well-being of children and families, function transparently, and allow its citizens to participate in democratic and civic processes freely and timely without fear of repercussions.