Since its foundation in 1833 by Blessed Antoine-Frédéric Ozanam and his friends, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP) has always sought to act effectively and altruistically in the fight against poverty (moral, spiritual and material) and social exclusion.

Over the years, this mission has expanded beyond the borders of France, reaching all continents and establishing itself on the international stage as one of the most important charitable organizations in the world. Today, the SSVP is present in 155 countries. However, this expansion brings with it significant challenges, especially when it comes to working with global organizations such as the United Nations (UN).

Since 2011, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, through the Council General International, has been part of the United Nations system on various fronts, initiatives and organizations. We are members of the Economic and Social Council – ECOSOC (New York), we are active before UNESCO (Paris) and the Human Rights Council (Genève), among other participations. Together with the Vincentian Family, the SSVP is part of the so-called VINCENTIAN COALITION, in a common effort towards the same goals (homeless people, families and refugees, for instance). Our focus: advocacy for the poor, within the 17 SDGs on Agenda 20230.

The involvement of the SSVP at the UN represents a crucial step towards amplifying its global voice and influence. Being present in such an important forum enables the SSVP to carry out its charitable mission at a higher level, actively participating in discussions and decisions that directly affect those most in need. However, this action requires adapting to new contexts and overcoming various new obstacles, which are the challenges facing humanity.

One of the main challenges faced by the SSVP at the UN is the need to make itself heard in an environment full of organizations with different agendas and interests. The complexity of the issues dealt with at the UN requires from the SSVP not only a deep understanding of global subjects, but also the ability to dialogue and collaborate with other actors, including countries, non-governmental organizations and private sector companies.

Another relevant challenge is maintaining Vincentian identity in an international political context. The SSVP needs to ensure that its essence of Christian charity and its commitment to the poorest are not lost in the midst of negotiations and debates often marked by divergent, pragmatic and sometimes contradictory interests. This requires a clarity of purpose and a firmness of values that can guide its actions and positions.

In addition, the SSVP needs an adequate organizational structure to operate effectively at the United Nations. This includes the training of delegates (based in New York, Paris and Geneva) prepared to interact with diplomats, ambassadors, lobbyists and other professionals in the international field, as well as the elaboration of strategies that allow the SSVP to maximize its influence on global decisions and policies. The preparation and continuous development of these delegates is crucial if the organization is to play a significant and lasting role.

The SSVP’s presence at the UN also implies a constant effort to defend the poor (called “advocacy”) and raise awareness. It is necessary to ensure that the causes defended by the SSVP, such as the eradication of poverty and the promotion of social justice, are constantly highlighted on international agendas. We advocate a culture of peace, a culture of empathy and a culture of solidarity. This advocacy work must be carried out continuously and strategically, involving direct action with decision-makers as well as awareness campaigns.

The worldwide influence of the SSVP and its work with the UN, therefore, involves a set of challenges that require preparation, adaptation, leadership and firmness of purpose. However, these difficulties are also opportunities for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul to expand its impact and strengthen its commitment to the most vulnerable. By facing these challenges with determination and fidelity to its principles, the SSVP continues to honor its mission and contribute to building a more just and fraternal world.

Renato Lima de Oliveira
Commissioner to the United Nations