The United Nations forms one of the key parts of CSW’s work. For many years we have been working at the Human Rights Council (HRC), one of the main ways the UN works for human rights. Our’consultative status’ allows us to present our latest research and witness testimonies to decision makers who have the power to make a real difference in the lives of ordinary people.

Sunday 27 January

At the time of writing negotiations are underway for the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to open an office in Sudan. While this might seem like good news, the opening of an office would bring an end to the mandate of the Independent Expert on human rights in Sudan. Pray that the HRC continues to give sufficient and regular attention to Sudan until the situation improves.

Monday 28 January

Ms Daniela Kravetz was elected last year as the new Special Rapporteur on Eritrea. Many of the countries we work on have been assigned Special Rapporteurs – these are experts who work voluntarily for the UN, conducting independent research on human rights and reporting back to the UN. Pray for Ms Kravetz as she takes up this role.

Tuesday 29 January

Eritrea is one of the worst countries in the world for human rights, where almost every right is violated regularly. Yet the country has just been elected to a seat on the HRC. Pray today that Member States will continue to pressure Eritrea to improve its appalling human rights record.

Wednesday 30 January

China has a lot of influence at the HRC, but it is important that the world does not shy away from shining a light on the situation for Uyghur Muslims and other religious and ethnic minorities across the country, including in Xinjiang Province. Pray for closer UN scrutiny, and that any necessary action would be taken.

Thursday 31 January

Praise God that the international community is acting on the grave findings of the UN’S Fact Finding Mission to Burma (Myanmar): in September the HRC passed a strong resolution ensuring continued investigation into the human rights situation in the country, particularly the persecution of the Rohingya Muslims.

Friday 1 February

This resolution is a significant step towards justice, as evidence will be collected for future criminal prosecution of those responsible for crimes committed under international law. Pray that compelling evidence will be gathered, and that justice will be done for everyone who has suffered in Burma.

Saturday 2 February

Heavenly Father, thank you for the way you have enabled CSW to have influence at the UN, promoting freedom of religion or belief in the world’s largest international organisation. We ask you to continue to bless our staff as they meet UN Ambassadors and staff, and open doors for them wherever they go.