The first World Meeting of Popular Movements promoted by the Pope has concluded.
The 150 leaders representing marginalized groups from around the world released a final document after three days of dialogue and debates.
They denounced the so-called 'hijacked democraciesâ? as systems that 'place profits above human beings.â? They also said that 'the excluded, the oppressed, and the poorâ? should have a greater role in politics.
Using Pope Francis' Evangelii Gaudium as a foundation, the representatives of the world's poorest groups resolved to work together against the throwaway culture.
They also spoke on the degradation of environment due to irresponsible exploitation of natural services for money.
JOí?O PEDRO STEDILE
Rural Workers Without Land (Brazil)
'One percent of landowners are owners of half the country. And on the other side, there are 4 million families without land that cannot work because there is no land in such a big country.â?
During their meetings, they also confronted questions such as the situation of unjustly paid workers or those without contracts, the homeless and those forced out of their homes.
JOSÉ ANTONIO VIVES
Plataforma Afectados por la Hipoteca (Spain)
'There are cases that have come to a tragic situation, even close to suicide.â?
SERGIO SíNCHEZ
Argentinian Federation of Recyclers (Argentina)
'For us recyclers, the only thing that all countries must do is formally recognize us as workers.â?
The participants expressed their commitment in creating a permanent area of dialogue with the Church and to spread two messages: A 'Letter from the excluded to the excludedâ? and the message pronounced by Pope Francis during the meeting.
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