The Association of Christian Entrepreneurs (ADEC) will hold its International Congress in the first week of June, inspired by the sports concept of Fair Play. The initiative proposes a long and complex path to establish fair dealings in the business sphere, with deep revisions in all areas, aiming to achieve what the founder of Opus Dei, Saint Josemaría Escrivá, called 'businesses with a human face', and which was echoed by Pope John Paul II.
The congress is part of the context of the Year of the Common Good, proclaimed by the Paraguayan Episcopal Conference for 2026. Justice, defined by the catechism as 'the constant and firm will to give God and neighbor what is due to them', is one of the cardinal virtues, alongside temperance, fortitude, and prudence. Fair trade approaches the Social Doctrine of the Church and initiatives such as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance), Positive Capitalism, and Inclusive Capitalism.
According to ADEC, the first step is to correctly internalize the concept of justice, which can be challenging. Often, people expect salary increases based on personal needs, rather than on merit or the company's capacity. Similarly, they desire health, education, housing, and free transportation as universal rights, forgetting that they need solid sources of funding. The congress proposes that each entrepreneur review contracts, pricing policies, benefits, and statutes, requiring conviction, learning, practice, and constant corrections to respect rights and promote harmony, equity, and the common good.
The second point is that the search for fair business is not restricted to large corporations or established companies; it begins with each individual and extends to all types of relationships. At a time when the population demands a reduction in the prices of imported goods, correction of the minimum wage formula, and adjustments so that the State fosters development, dialogue and action are urgent. The congress invites reflection and courage to undertake this path, with the help of the Holy Spirit.