Exchange of experiences and future exploration during the SMC Member Day.

80 representatives from the SMC member organisations gathered at Immanuel Church in Stockholm.

There are historical examples of the connection between faith and democracy. Arne Rasmusson, professor of Faith and Philosophy at the University of Gothenburg, gave examples of were outlived Christianity has contributed to increased democracy, gender equality and an expanded civil society.

This year’s theme at SMC’s member day was the connection between faith and democracy and the space of civil society. Arne Rasmusson’s historical perspective laid an initial foundation for the panel discussions and discussions that followed.

The role of civil society has recently been actualised, but will more people dare to get involved in an increasingly polarised society? Frida Park, the newspaper Dagen, Bo Jeppson, the Salvation Army, Arnold Langefors, Quaker Aid and Lotta Becker, the Christian Peace Movement gave their views on this complex issue during the first panel discussion of the day.

— You don’t even want to have a negative comment in a newspaper because you are afraid of the consequences, said Frida Park.

Bo Jeppson raised the issue of not being visible in forums where young people get their news and that it is our responsibility to enter those contexts. Our role as a stable point in a society where public opinion shifts rapidly should be our strength emphasised Arnold Langefors.

There are several challenges for those who work in more or less closed countries. During today’s second panel discussion, strategic tips and different experiences were discussed, for example how to influence and highlight unequal legislation. It can require creativity and dexterity when partners in countries without a free civil society need support.

SMC’s Secretary General Charlotta Norrby spoke about what the network has been doing during the past year and upcoming events in 2024. The day was then concluded by the Chairman of the SMC Board, Stefan Emilsson, who sent a final encouragement to continue building on the community as a network and council.

Några glada personer i gruppsamtal på konferns i Kenya.Några glada personer i gruppsamtal på konferns i Kenya.

Our network

A vibrant network with a long history

Our network began to grow at the Ecumenical Mission Conference in Edinburgh back in 1912. The world has changed since then but our focus on holistic mission gives us a platform to cooperate with a wide range of churches and organisations in our global civil society.

Read more about our network