Religion, ethics and communal interaction in the new South Africa : the case of the declaration on religious rights and responsibilities

Abstract

Considering the immense power of religion for either good or evil, it is imperative that the followers of different religions should discuss their differences and negotiate a shared future, especially in a religiously pluralistic country such as South Africa. This article describes one attempt to engage in such a process; the South African Chapter of the World Conference on Religion and Peace's creation of the "Declaration on Religious Rights and Responsibilities". The author was personally involved in the compilation of this text. The process that led up to this document is described, as is the intent behind some of its more contentious clauses. A prognosis for the document's future is also offered.