Back
September 2004 Update
Upcoming Activities:
A reminder that the International
Vigil for Peace occurs on Sept. 21. We encourage everyone who can to
participate and to let us know what you are doing so we can post the
information on our new web site (which should be ready by 1 October).
For more information: visit here.
The 57th annual conference put on by the Department of Public Information for NGOs at the United Nations
will take place 8-10 September, 2004 at headquarters in New York.
Its theme is "Millennium Development Goals: Civil Society Action".
For the complete Conference program, speaker bios and information on
the NGO Interactive Midday workshops visit our interactive web site
at www.undpingoconference.org.
Survey Results:
As many as 725 sisters and associated members of UNANIMA International participated in the last March's survey on trafficking in human beings and immigration. Although we received responses came from five continents, the majority came from those countries which "import" women and children, or receive immigrants. Most responders were not directly involved in the trafficking problem or serving its victims, but many lived with, and served immigrants or refugees. It seems apparent that there is an overlap between those who are immigrants or refugees and those who are trafficked. Many of the responses given were similar for all three groups - immigrants, refugees and persons trafficked.
Those few members who are directly involved in the issue of human trafficking gave more extensive information in their responses. Overall, we were surprised and grateful at how many of our members in their 80's and some even in their 90's, took time and effort to respond to the survey form and affirm their commitment to pray for this huge problem of human trafficking. Some even apologized for not being able to do more!
(Reported by Ana Martinez de Luco,CCV)
Changes in NGO participation at the UN foreseen:
Last year UN Secretary General asked an expert's panel headed by
former Brazilian president, Enrique Cardoso to study UN-civil
society relationships and make recommendations for changes.
The panel completed its work, presented its report and is now
holding meetings to discuss its findings. One of the main
points is the priority given to the UN embracing a plurality of constituencies, since
many actors can be relevant to an issue. This suggests that the UN should be open to business, academics, national legislators, etc. - not just NGOs in the way it has been in the past. Reactions to the panel's proposals have been both negative and positive. For UI, this may affect our accreditation process. Such decisions will be taken during the regular sessions of the General Assembly these coming months. However, until we receive further information we will move ahead with our application for accreditation which is scheduled for consideration in January 2005.
(Reported by Ana Martinez de Luco,CCV)
Membership in UNANIMA International.
Nancy Glynn, a member of the General Council of the Sisters of Bon Secours, is requesting that their congegation consider membership in UNANIMA International. This will be discussed at their General Chapter which is being held in September in Marriottsville, Maryland. Catherine sent them copies of our newly-printed brochure for each of the chapter delegates.
Return to top of page
|
