In 1991, Jody Williams and two other people formed the “International Campaign to Ban Landmines.” During the following six years, the group had entered into a coalition with over 1000 Non-Government Organizations and got 121 nations to sign a treaty to ban landmines, which took effect in March 1999. Along the way, Williams won the Nobel Peace Prize.
It’s not only the use of NGOs that makes this a classic case of pomo activism. It’s also her relentless use of communications technologies: From her farm in Vermont, she sent out emails to officials and activists all over the world. And it’s also the use of celebrities: Williams and her group were able to win the public support of Princes Diana.
Peter Leithart
Peter J. Leithart is President of Theopolis Institute. He is the author of numerous books on theology, literature, and culture, including Theopolitan, Defending Constantine, and Baptized Body.
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