Pre-requisites

None.

Co-requisites

None.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, the student will be able to:

• Develop a coherent theological framework in which to critique key contemporary analyses of power and powerlessness, marginalisation and poverty

• Articulate and apply a theological rationale for Christian faith-based advocacy around basic human rights.

• Generate theologically coherent and developmentally sound advocacy strategies for responding to the impact of injustice on weak and vulnerable communities.

• Develop resources and activities designed to motivate and mobilise Christians in a justice and compassionate response to those who suffer from marginalisation, discrimination or exploitation.

• Develop advanced knowledge of the theological debates that have shaped the discourse on justice from a biblical perspective.

Unit Description

This unit will explore the complexities and challenges that inhabit the interface between power, violence and poverty. It will examine the theoretical framework for human rights with particular focus on biblical perspectives on the misuse and abuse of power, peacemaking and reconciliation, and the case for affirmative action with and on behalf of the vulnerable and marginalised. Special attention will be given to: lessons learned from global and national advocacy campaigns; emerging civic-driven advocacy practice; strategies for ensuring children’s rights and safety; the reduction of gender-based violence. Relevant case studies will be presented to ensure that theoretical and theological reflection is grounded in practical realities. The unit also explores the role and responsibility of Christian Non Government Development Organisations in the task of engaging the wider Christian community in the work of justice and compassion.

Questions explored at depth within this unit include: Why should advocacy with and for the poor be an integral dimension of the Church’s witness and work in the world? Why have many Non Government Development Organisations given much higher priority to advocacy in recent years, and why has this provoked controversy within the wider community? What advocacy strategies have proved more effective in achieving positive change for vulnerable communities?

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Unit offerings

Face to face: (Every 3rd Year, Semester 2)
Face to face: (Every 3rd Year, Semester 2)

Please note

The Unit Offerings listed above are a guide only and the timetable for any year is the final authority. The College may vary offerings based on demand, regulatory requirements, continual improvement processes or other conditions.

This unit may be available in different modes of delivery i.e. online and face-to-face as listed above. The unit content will not differ between these modes of delivery. There will possibly be a difference in the schedule and/or the prescribed assessment tasks, however both will cover and assess the same content.