The basic framework of the DO

In the framework proposed by the DOV, the Central Committee highlighted the crucial urgency of the Decade and raised questions for reflection and action by the churches and the ecumenical movement. These will be outlined in Phases 1-5 below.

3.3.3.1 Phases of the Decade to Overcome Violence  

The five phases of the DOV’s basic framework proposed by the Central Committee are as follow:

Phase I (1999-2000) - Preparation for the Decade and Launch

The WCC Central Committee invited member churches and ecumenical partners to join the Decade to Overcome Violence, and asked regional and ecumenical gatherings to outline their specific priorities and projects. By so doing, they would contribute to the development of the architecture; formulation of the main message; creation of an appropriate organisational framework and budget for coordination and planning; development and implementation of communication strategies; and preparation for the launch.

182_{Boraine, A. A Country Unmasked. Cape Town: OUP, 2000, p. 157. A more comprehensive study that includes}

Truth and Reconciliation Commissions (TRCs) among other issues dealing with political transitions is Neil J. Kritz (ed.). Transitional Justice. Washington DC: US Institute of Peace Press, 1995.

Phase II (2001-2004) - Launch Decade to Overcome Violence Actions

In January 2001, simultaneous launches were being organised around the world, involving local congregations and groups as well as highly visible international events. Different issues and appropriate methodologies were being used in the Decade to Overcome Violence process, which were coordinated with regard to planning, communication, joint events, and common goals. Phase III (2004) - Synthesis through Cross-Contextual Analysis and Experience

As some issues and actions continued, the WCC facilitated exchanges between creative models of peacemaking addressed in the first three years with the aim of strengthening networks and building new alliances.

Phase IV (2005) - Analysis/Evaluation/Preparation for the Assembly and the Subsequent Five Years

Analysis and evaluation of the first stage of the Decade to Overcome Violence would reflect on the process and ask the following questions: What are the lessons learned so far? What are the challenges to the churches? What are the churches doing? What remains to be done? Strategic exchanges and visits would help participants in the DOV project to listen to and learn from one another. These evaluations and exchanges would contribute to the Assembly’s preparation and build new impetus for the Decade’s second stage.

Phase V (2005-2010) - WCC Ninth Assembly

Lessons and challenges from the first part of the Decade would be shared. The focus and plan of action for 2006-2010 would be finalised and adopted.

3.3.3.2 Approaches and methodologies of the DOV 

The main approaches and methodologies that are used by the DOV are outlined in the “Basic Framework for the DOV Working Document Adopted by the Central Committee of the WCC on 26 August-3 September 1999”183_:

183_{WCC, Central Committee. A Basic Framework for the Decade to Overcome Violence, Working Document}

Study processes - These entail continuing and expanding the theological reflections on violence and nonviolence from the perspectives of the dignity and rights of human beings and of the community; an ongoing and accessible biblical study process (contextual, cross-contextual, and cross-cultural); as well as the study and analysis of the work of truth and reconciliation commissions. Other aspects include engaging churches and regional networks in reflection on violence and peace building in the midst of structural challenges such as racism, globalisation, violence against women, violence among youths, violence against children, etc.

Campaigns - Campaigns have to do with providing practical support and solidarity to churches and groups in their efforts to mobilise campaigns on specific issues with defined goals to prevent, transform and overcome violence in their own contexts as well as encouraging churches and organisations to network for specific international campaigns.

Education - Education involves collecting, compiling, and sharing a peace education curriculum for children, youths, and adults, by building on existing models, particularly from a Christian perspective; networking educators and resource people, as well as theological institutions, who are engaged in conflict resolution, transformation, and mediation. It also aims to challenge present educational systems and media which perpetuate competition, aggressive individualism and violence, especially among children.

Worship and Spirituality - The approach concerns the idea of sharing resources and practices that have to do with worship and prayer across traditions and cultures in order to focus on the common efforts of peace making and reconciliation. The concept of metanoia is particularly important as the churches take responsibility for their part in violent actions in the past and at present. Metanoia incorporates confession, repentance, renewal, and celebration of faith, and it is therefore the foundation of a culture of peace.

Telling the Story - Decade "Open Space" Sharing stories of violence, initiatives to overcome violence, and sustaining cultures of peace, churches, communities, groups, and individuals will create ‘open space’ through the World Wide Web, print, video, events and personal exchanges. These stories will connect people and efforts, provide support and solidarity, share resource and ideas, and provide constant input into the process and focus of the Decade, particularly for the second stage, 2006-2010.