Declaration of Women Religious Leaders
members of the International Union of Superiors General
participating at the UISG Plenary held in Rome May 6-10,
and ratified by the Assembly of Delegates on May 13, 2001

We, almost 800 women leaders of one million members
of Catholic Religious Institutes throughout the world
reflecting on the theme
Women Religious: Many Cultures, one Heart:
Sent to be a living presence of the tenderness and mercy of God in our wounded world
publicly declare our determination to work in solidarity with one another
within our own religious communities and in the countries in which we are located
to address insistently at every level
the abuse and sexual exploitation of women and children
with particular attention to
the trafficking of women
which has become a lucrative multi-national business.

Drawing on our long tradition as educators we will continue
to promote the education and formation of women
within and outside our own organizations
by committing personnel and financial resources
to ensure the holistic development of women at every stage of life
empowering them to develop an inner strength
and appreciation of their God-given gifts to promote and
enhance life.

As women committed to human rights
we declare once more our solidarity with the poorest
countries
and restate our resolution to work for the cancellation of
the International Debt.

As women opposed to the perpetuation of war and violence
we express our commitment to the creation of a culture
of peace
and we call on heads of governments and multi-national
companies
to stop the sale of and purchase of armaments.

As women concerned about the preservation of Mother Earth
we will take action when and wherever possible
to end the destructive behaviour that causes global
warming and climate change
and threatens all forms of life on our planet.

We pledge ourselves to implement these resolutions
through a system of networking
among ourselves and with other existing organizations
 with similar concerns
within Churches and in society.

Attentive to the cries that arise with one voice from many cultures
we will respond as women disciples of Jesus Christ
seeing the world with the eyes of the heart
and with compassion of a loving God.