‘Success can be hard to measure at the UN because so much of what we do is about being committed to the long-haul.’ – CSW’s UN Officer Claire Denman

CSW has been advocating at the United Nations for decades, and we have been accredited since 2017. This means we are recognised by the UN as specialists in our field and holding expertise that supports the aims of the UN. With our accreditation, we can participate in various ways, including by speaking at the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) sessions. We also hold side events, which run alongside the main UNHRC session and usually take the form of panel discussions. We often bring people from the countries we work on to give their first-hand testimonies. Victories take time, but we see them every year and praise God for this.

Find out more at csw.org.uk/un

Sunday 23 October

Pray today for Dr Nazila Ghanea, who was appointed the UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief in July. This role is a key mechanism in the UN’s arsenal for protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief, and is one with which CSW works very closely. Pray that Dr Ghanea’s work would bear fruit.

Monday 24 October

Today is United Nations Day – the anniversary of when the UN Charter came into force in 1945. On this day we thank God for the good things the UN has achieved over the past 77 years, and pray that it would become even more effective in the years to come.

Tuesday 25 October

Next month, the Human Rights Council will review the human rights situations in India and Indonesia as part of the Universal Periodic Review process. CSW submitted written evidence on both countries. Pray that our recommendations for action are accepted.

Wednesday 26 October

‘For dominion belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations.’ – Psalm 22:28. Pray that all those working and participating at the UN would be reminded of this powerful truth today.

Thursday 27 October

Today is International Freedom of Religion or Belief Day – an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to our goal of a world in which everyone is free to believe. Join us today in calling on God to make that vision a reality.

Friday 28 October

Our UN Officer Claire Denman has spearheaded our work at all three Human Rights Council sessions this year, as well as at the UN General Assembly. Ask God to strengthen, guide and smile on her today (Numbers 6:25 NLT).

Saturday 29 October

Lord God, we lift the United Nations to you today. Help CSW to work effectively at the UN, grant us opportunities to help bring meaningful change and give us wisdom in all our interactions. Amen.

Download a printable copy of this week’s Prayer Diary.