It is perfectly in order for Bahá'í institutions to present
the Bahá'í view or recommendations on any subject of vital interest to the
Faith which is under the consideration of a government, if the governmental
authority itself invites such a submission, or if it is open to receive recommendations.
The Bahá'í Assemblies should, however, refrain from bringing pressure to bear
on the authorities in such matters, either separately or in concert with
others. The Bahá'ís will submit their views, if permissible, expressing them as
cogently and forcefully as the occasion warrants, but will not go beyond this
to the stage of pressing the authorities to adopt these views. Moreover, when
considering whether or not it is wise to make such a submission on any
particular matter, the Bahá'í Assembly concerned must take care that it will
not diffuse the energies of the Community or divert its resources by making
submissions unless the interests of Faith demand it. Likewise the Assembly must
ensure that it does not, by any minute and detailed analysis of a situation,
"needlessly alienate or estrange any government or people", or
involve the Faith in "the base clamourings and contentions of warring
sects, factions and nations."
- The Universal House of Justice (From a
letter dated 21 November 1971 to an individual believer; The Compilation of
Compilations vol. II, Teaching Prominent People)
