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“Let no one be a stranger within these walls”
‘The international trading system was devised by the rich
to suit their needs; it ignores those of the poor.’
Pope Paul VI
Biblical Foundations for Trade Justice
In this world millions live in poverty. A recent report from the World Bank describes the multiple dimensions of poverty: ‘Poverty is hunger. Poverty is lack of shelter. Poverty is being sick and not being able to see a doctor. Poverty is not being able to go to school, not knowing how to read, not being able to speak properly. Poverty is not having a job, is fear for the future, living one day at a time. Poverty is losing a child to illness brought about by unclean water. Poverty is powerlessness, lack of representation, and lack of freedom.’
God created a world of abundance. Humankind has a responsibility to manage that abundance appropriately, and to ensure that goods and skills are traded in a way that benefits all people.
Christians recognise that all people are made in the image of God (Genesis 1: 26-27) and that therefore anything that stunts their potential is an offence against God. Enforced poverty is not God’s will for humankind. The Bible contains numerous references to poverty and the poor. What is critically important throughout the Bible, however, is how the poor are treated. ‘Since there will never cease to be some in need on the earth, therefore I command you, “Open your hand to the poor and needy neighbour in your land”.’ (Deuteronomy 15:11).
Oppression of the poor is specifically mentioned as a sign of disobedience to God. Jesus castigates the Pharisees for their love of ritual but lack of care for the poor: ‘But woe to you, Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and herbs of all kinds, and neglect justice and the love of God.’ (Luke 11:42).
This theme also appears in the letter of James, with harsh words to those who have exploited their workers: ‘Come now, you rich people, weep and wail for the miseries that are coming to you. … The wages of the labourers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, cry out, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts.’ (James 5:1-4) Attitudes and actions towards poor people are seen very specifically as indicative of a right relationship with God. ‘He judged the cause of the poor and needy; then it was well. “Is not this to know me?” says the Lord.’ (Jeremiah 22:16).
In the early church, the sharing of wealth was a characteristic of the new Christian community (Acts 4:32-35). Treating the poor with justice is a measure of the presence of the Kingdom of God.
Towards a new world economy
While the biblical truths outlined above are believed by millions of people around the world, the global economy has so far failed to reverse the increasing impoverishment of the poor and weak. In fact many people would argue that current economic policies actually increase poverty.
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Lifting the Burden: Trade Justice
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