The Justice and Peace Commission (J.P.C) of the Catholic Diocese of Kenema was established in 1986, in the bid to work with Civil society Organizations (C.S.Os) on issues of Human Rights , Justice and Peace , Reconciliation. These will be achieved by using the Gospel of Christ and the Social Teachings of the Church to respond to these issues.
After the eleven years of Civil war in Sierra Leone, the Bishop of the Diocese of Kenema, Bishop Patrick Koroma in 2008 formally re-established and re-structured the J.P.C in the diocese of Kenema. It was in this vein that the thirteen (13) parishes in the diocese of Kenema came together to come up with a working document.
The organization has engaged itself in previous works relating to women’s rights, transparency and accountability, strengthening youths and the marginalized to participate in democratic processes and provide livelihood support to women and women’s groups.
Its vision is a Society where the dignity of all persons is respected, regardless of the tribe, color , race and creed; are well informed about their rights, and responsibilities; and actively participate in the transformation of communities for sustainable development.The organization focuses on the following:
Rule of Law, Access to Justice and Legal Empowerment
Governance and Women’s Rights
Human Rights,
Advocacy
Girl Child and Adolescent Education
Peace Building
Livelihood
Mandate: J.P.C established in the diocese of Kenema based on the gospel and social teachings of the Catholic Church. It engages Civil Society Organizations( C.S.Os) , Men, Women and young people , for the promotion of Human Rights, Justice , Peace and reconciliation; at community, parish , district , and diocesan level, in collaboration with PARISHES and other diocesan structures through awareness raising , advocacy, trainings and networking.