Maintaining unity in a time of political debate
As Aotearoa New Zealand approaches the General Election on 7 November 2026, political discussion is becoming increasingly prominent in the media, in our communities and in everyday conversations. At such a time, it is timely for the friends to reflect upon the Bahá’í teachings concerning political non-involvement and the responsibility we share to promote unity in an often-divided society.
In a letter dated 23 December 2008, the Universal House of Justice recalls the guidance of Shoghi Effendi that Bahá’ís are to:
“…rise above all particularism and partisanship, above the disputes, the petty calculations, the transient passions that agitate the face, and engage the attention, of a changing world.”
As such, Bahá’ís are encouraged to be mindful of remaining aloof when strong opinions about political parties, candidates and policies give rise to disagreement and contention. Even in ordinary conversations with family, friends or colleagues, or through comments and exchanges on social media, there is a risk of becoming drawn into debates about the relative merits of political parties or their representatives. Such discussions can, often unintentionally, place us within the very framework of partisan rivalry, disputation and disunity, which is the very antithesis of what our Faith stands for with its pivotal principle of unity-building.
This does not mean that Bahá’ís should be indifferent to the important issues facing society. On the contrary, the teachings of the Faith call upon us to concern ourselves deeply with the well-being of humanity and to contribute actively to the betterment of the world. The Universal House of Justice, in a letter to an individual believer dated 22 January 2010, explains that while Bahá’ís avoid partisan political activity, they are to engage constructively in the prevalent discourses of society and social endeavours directed towards the progress of society.
The distinction lies in the spirit and purpose of our participation. Rather than entering into arguments about which political party or candidate offers the best solutions, we can seek opportunities to explore the underlying principles, such as justice, truthfulness and the value of cooperation in working for the common good.
At a time when political differences can so readily separate people, the Bahá’í commitment to constructive dialogue and service to humanity offers a greater, more meaningful contribution to the life of our nation and the world around us.
Further reading & Guidance
The following messages of the Universal House of Justice offer valuable guidance on the Bahá’í approach to political non-involvement and participation in the life of society.
23 December 2008 — Guidance on political non-involvement and the distinction between partisan activity and constructive social discourse. From the Department of the Secretariat of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer, 23 December 2008
22 January 2010 — Guidance on the Bahá’í community's approach to political activity and its commitment to social transformation titled ‘Principles regarding Participation in the Life of Society in Iran’. From the Department of the Secretariat of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer, 22 January 2010
2 March 2013 — A message to the Bahá’ís of Iran explaining the principles underlying the Bahá’í approach to politics and participation in society. From the Universal House of Justice to the Bahá’ís of Iran, 2 March 2013
