A support committee promoting the candidature of Belgian sociologist
and Vatican II expert, Father Francois Houtart, for the Nobel Peace
Prize has withdrawn its bid after the priest asked the committee to
withdraw its bid.
“The support Committee for the candidature of François Houtart for
the 2011 Nobel Prize wants to thank the thousands of people (74
countries) who have participated to the signature campaign,” a media
release from the committee states.
“Such a result has showed the importance of alterglobalization ideas
and actions, facing the present challenges for nature and humankind.
“However, François Houtart asked the Committee to put an end to this personalized campaign.
“His age and his personal projects would not allow him to fully
assume the role requested in such circumstances. He believes that what
needs to be especially emphasized is the collective character of the
innumerable movements and persons who are struggling for another
possible world.
“The steps we have accomplished together have been part of a great
movement and manifested a hope for the future. We are closuring this
phase, asking to everyone to continue in all possible places an action
indispensable for the safeguard of nature and of human life,” the media
release says.
Father Houtart played a key role in the development of the World
Social Forum. He wrote his doctoral thesis on Sri Lankan Buddhism.
SIC: CTH/ASIA