introduction to wea UN advocacy

Introduction

The World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) has had special status at the United Nations since 1997 to advocate for Christians who are under pressure for their faith. The office in Geneva participates in the Human Rights Council processes, including Universal Periodic Review, making reports to UN experts, giving input into resolutions and making statements to the Council itself. We have the opportunity to bring the voices of our national alliances to the halls of power.

Purpose

Our purpose is to promote freedom of religion for all people worldwide as defined by Article 18 of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and in accordance with Scripture. Our aim is to help all people, but especially Protestant Christians, to exercise their faith without oppression or discrimination. Because the WEA represents some 650 million Christians in over 160 countries, it is both an effective and influential global network.

The work of the WEA Offices to the United Nations builds on an initial developmental process from 1988-92.

Desired Results

The results of our policies and activities will be to strengthen the ability of the body of Christ worldwide to express its faith by fostering an environment in which Christians are free to fulfill their biblical mandate, and to equip the Church in responding to discrimination, pressure and persecution.

WEA Brochure

The WEA defends persecuted Christians, informs the global Church, challenges the Church to pray and gives all possible assistance to those who are suffering including training and equipping those facing persecution. We work directly with our national alliances to bring their voices to the halls of the United Nations, particularly the Human Rights Council in Geneva. We also work with organisations that support the persecuted church so that we are united in supporting our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world.

Download and read this brochure to understand our work and its impact.
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Theory of Change

The WEA is a unique organization in having national evangelical alliance members in over 164 countries. We believe that change happens when we coordinate advocacy nationally, regionally and at the United Nations – the same message at all levels. At the UN, we bring the voices of national alliance leaders to the international level. We also advocate for policies that national alliances can use in advocacy to their governments.

Contact Us

WEA Office to the United Nations in Geneva: [email protected]