by Amy Butler

A truth and reconciliation commission may be the only way to achieve sustainable peace in the Solomon Islands, according to Matthew Walle of the Solomon Islands Christian Association (SICA).
Mr Walle visited Australia last month to promote the Christmas Bowl appeal, run by the National Council of Churches in Australia. He says the peace process, since the coup in 2000, has focused on bringing the perpetrators to justice. While this is important, victims and their families also need to be heard. This, he says, will lead to a more meaningful reconciliation in the Solomons.
“Before the conflict the Solomon Islands were an idyllic place. Now it is a common expectation that people will use a gun to steal or rape,” he said.
Current estimates are that up to 600 guns have not been handed in. It is believed those guns are largely in the hands of the militia.
Mr Walle’s role at SICA involves mediating between the community, the militia and the government as the country gradually rebuilds its system of government.
“Civil society in Melanesia is a rubbery concept. Before the conflict there was no definition of civil society but it soon became clear that there needed to be a voice for the public.”
Mr Walle says Christian leaders were initially reluctant to cross the boundaries between church and state, however they now play an integral role.
SICA hopes to establish a truth and reconciliation commission by 2004, once they receive support from the government.
Bernard Sabella, from the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), also visited Australia to promote the Christmas Bowl appeal. His work involves assisting the two million Palestinian refugees across the Middle East.
Funds received through this year’s Christmas Bowl appeal will support SICA and MECC. Call 1800 025 101.