The BFT's main focus in social and economic
development is, therefore, not simply to develop communities
by providing goods, services or money. Instead, the focus is
to build the capacity of individuals, communities and their
institutions to apply the principles, concepts and Teachings
of the Revelation of Baha'u'llah to the various aspects of daily
life, so that through consultation, they can make profound decisions
about their spiritual and material progress, and then implement
these decisions. This approach to development will enable individuals
and communities to uplift themselves, become self-sufficient
and self-reliant, and also establish consistent patterns of
positive change, both in the spiritual and material condition
of their individual lives and their communities.
At the same time, the BFT is guided by the
belief that human beings have unlimited potential. As a result,
the BFT aims to find and encourage projects and paths of action
that will enable individuals and communities to develop their
potential and talents through service to the family, the community,
and society as a whole.
Essential Components in Building
Capacity
Consultation, Action and Reflection
In the Baha'i view, development cannot be imposed on a community
from outside. It is a process that must grow from the grass
roots through the participation of the community members themselves
in conjunction with supporting social institutions. The individuals
in a community must consult regularly with each other and with
the respective institutions to create social and economic projects,
then take action together, and then reflect on their actions.
The BFT will respond to the community's hopes and initiatives,
and consult with its members to help them determine the goals,
strategies and methods of the project. However, the BFT will
not impose ideas and projects in a top-down manner.
In this manner, projects are created and
implemented in an organic manner, with the BFT using and building
on the ideas, opinions, existing capabilities, knowledge, attitudes
and skills of the people in the community. The BFT helps the
project to develop from the consciousness and will of the people,
and at its own natural speed. This approach is effective in
lifting the institutions and individuals involved to new levels
of achievement.
The Development of Human Resources
Developing human resources is a vital part of the BFT's activities
because this is essential to effective social progress. Training
programmes are held to build the capacity of individuals, communities,
and institutions by developing necessary practical skills, knowledge,
attitudes, capabilities, as well as empowering behaviours and
leadership skills. It is important to develop attitudes because
these stem from the guiding values and principles that direct
an individual's behaviour and decisions. Capabilities must also
be developed because they result from the mastery of principles
and concepts that enable an individual to apply his talents
to develop his community. The BFT will strive to develop people's
capabilities, attitudes, skills, and knowledge by enabling individuals
to participate in creating and implementing projects that will
lead to the continuous development of their community's social
and economic well-being.
Integration of Social and Economic
Projects
The BFT will encourage projects in many areas of a community's
social and economic development, such as health, education,
and agriculture. One of the BFT's functions is to integrate
these various projects so that the insights, experience, and
knowledge gained in each field may be brought to bear on all
projects. For this to happen, consultation must take place between
the BFT and the local communities involved. Such a process of
development will help to ensure sustainable development with
continuous involvement at grass roots level.
Integration of Spiritual and Material
Development
In the Baha'i view, material development and spiritual development
must go hand in hand. Consequently, the BFT will ensure that
in the communities where social and economic development is
taking place, there are also activities and programmes to develop
the community members' spiritual qualities.
Guiding Principles When Choosing
Projects
Baha'i communities will become
the spearhead of spiritual, social and economic transformation
in their geographical areas.
When identifying and embracing
a social and economic development project, the BFT will ensure
that the project:
strictly adheres to the principles
and Teachings of the Baha'i Faith, and that it will help
to promote the operating principle and ultimate goal of
Baha'u'llah's Revelation, which is the oneness of mankind
and the creation of a new world civilization.
receives its driving force
from natural stirrings at the grass roots level of communities.
will help the participating
communities and institutions to increase their capabilities.
will liberate the human potential
of the participating communities through educational processes.
will encourage greater self-reliance
and interdependency amongst the participating communities.
focuses not only on the material
aspects of life, but also on the social and spiritual components.
recognises the interrelation
of social structures and the individual, and will contribute
to develop both the individual and the social environment.
makes use of the fruits of
science and technology, and operates in accordance with
the highest standards of human and cultural values and wisdom.
is conducive to the best
interests of society, and not to the vested interests of
a few individuals or groups.
contributes to the strengthening
of unity and harmony, and avoids any relationship with divisive
forces or movements.
promotes cooperation and
mutual assistance, and does not engender a competitive spirit.
Baha'i Foundation of
