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)
