Human Security in Angola: the role of religious non-state actors

Religious non governmental actors in Angola are responsible for essential social services, including health care, primary education, and agricultural projects. Until the end of the Angolan civil war in 2002, most of them were primarily concerned with humanitarian relief. Since then, a relatively small but increasingly relevant share of the responsibility for minimum human security standards in the country lies within their realm of activity and influence. Such activity and influence is in its turn part of a greater virtuous cycle which may lead to national reconciliation and general well-being. Religious non-state actors, mostly local and international Christian churches, missionary agencies and missionaries, direct and indirectly engage in ‘human security perceptions exchanges, as beliefs and values on human security are transmitted and their presence spreads in urban and rural areas of Angola.