The UK General Election and the Call to Action for Catholics
As Britain’s general election approaches on Thursday, July 4, the anticipation is high for a potential change in government after 14 years. In the lead-up to this pivotal moment, CAFOD, the Catholic aid agency representing the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, is urging Catholics to play an active role in shaping the country’s future by engaging with the political process.
By Linda Bordoni
The upcoming election has been described as one of the most significant in the UK since World War II. CAFOD’s campaign focuses on aligning Catholic values with political choices, emphasizing the duty to address injustices and environmental concerns in line with Pope Francis’ teachings.
Neil Thorns, Director of Advocacy for CAFOD, stressed the importance of voting for the common good and advocating for those most vulnerable in society. He highlighted the need for politicians to address pressing issues and embody a “better kind of politics,” as emphasized by the Pope.
Inspired by Pope Francis’ message that politics is a noble vocation meant to serve the people, CAFOD’s campaign aims to mobilize Catholics to speak out on critical issues and place the needs of the marginalized at the forefront of political discussions.
Listen to the interview with Neil Thorns
Addressing Domestic and Global Challenges
CAFOD’s campaign tackles both domestic poverty in the UK and global issues, such as climate change and migration. Thorns emphasized the collaborative efforts to raise awareness about poverty in the UK and the importance of considering the global common good in addressing crises.
With a focus on the climate crisis, Thorns highlighted the need for politicians to prioritize environmental issues and act beyond self-interest for the benefit of all. He echoed Pope Francis’ call to address climate change as one of the greatest challenges of our time.
A foodbank in northeast London reaches out to families in difficulty
Engaging the Youth and Tackling Migration
The campaign resonates with young voters, urging them to participate in shaping the future and advocating for decisive actions on critical issues like climate change. Thorns emphasized the urgency for political leaders to take bold steps, especially regarding the climate crisis impacting future generations.
Migration is another key issue for the new government to address, with Thorns advocating for safe and legal migration routes and emphasizing the need to support vulnerable migrants. He called for a shift in the narrative around migration, aligning with Pope Francis’ message of welcoming and caring for those in need.
Migrants attempt to cross the British Channel
Combatting Populism and Nationalism
At a time when populism and nationalism are on the rise globally, Thorns echoed Pope Francis’ warnings about these ideologies and called for an inclusive approach that prioritizes the poor. He stressed the importance of caring for the most vulnerable, both at home and abroad, and urged politicians to adopt an outward-looking perspective.
As the UK prepares for the general election, CAFOD’s campaign serves as a reminder of the Catholic values and teachings that guide responsible citizenship and advocate for the well-being of all members of society.
