SILVER SPRING, MD (October 24, 2024) – The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) ADRA joins worldwide communities this month to commemorate United Nations Day, celebrating the founding of the United Nations on October 24, 1945.
ADRA has played a vital role in the UN since receiving General Consultative Status in 1997, the highest degree of accreditation that the United Nations (UN) may bestow on non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Within the UN framework, ADRA has established itself as a respected voice in the international development community. This significant status empowers ADRA to:
- Designate official representatives to the UN Office in Geneva (UNOG)
- Actively participate in UN events, conferences, and initiatives
- Deliver impactful written and oral statements at UN gatherings
- Present at United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) meetings, addressing critical issues such as economic development, social justice, human rights, and environmental sustainability.
The Director of ADRA International United Nations Liaison Office, Dr. Akintayo Odeyemi, who has a PhD in Agricultural Extension and Rural Sociology, reflects on this year’s UN theme, “The World Needs the UN and the UN Needs Us,” and how it aligns with ADRA’s mission.
“This theme resonates deeply with us at ADRA,” Dr. Odeyemi states. “It embodies our collective responsibility in a world that seeks peace, security, and integration. We understand that our work at the community level is crucial. Through our projects and active participation in UN working groups, we contribute to global peace initiatives, economic development, and social cohesion. Our efforts, while modest, are essential for fostering understanding and collaboration among diverse communities. The UN, representing member states from around the globe, is an invaluable partner in this mission. Together, we can advocate for global peace and forge connections that transcend borders.”
ADRA aims to shift discussions at the UN from conflict to cooperation, focusing on nurturing unity, and peace. Odeyemi who previously served as executive director in ADRA’s Africa Regional Office, recalls the significant impact of ADRA’s peace strategy during the 1994 genocide in Rwanda.
“One of the most impactful experiences I’ve had was in Rwanda, where a government official emphasized the importance of embedding peacebuilding into all our programs. This commitment continues to shape ADRA Rwanda’s initiatives. Witnessing this dedication firsthand reinforced my belief in the transformative power of dialogue and collaboration,” Dr. Odeyemi explains.
Through its presence at the UN in New York, ADRA engages with global leaders and NGOs, planning side events to showcase its impactful work. This visibility is vital as ADRA strives to fulfill its mission while highlighting partnerships and field efforts.
“ADRA is dedicated to justice, compassion, and love. We demonstrate these values through our projects and collaborations, engaging with state representatives, NGOs, and faith-based organizations. The results are tangible; we are making significant contributions to peace and security, economic development, and global integration at the community level,” Dr. Odeyemi adds.”
Looking ahead, ADRA is committed to strengthening its alliances both within the UN and with external partners. By fostering these connections, ADRA seeks to enhance advocacy efforts and amplify its impact, working to bring justice for refugees, drive positive change for marginalized communities, and seek solutions for stateless individuals. Recently, Odeyemi participated in the first Global Alliance Regional Network Lab (RNL) in Geneva focused on Statelessness.
“The global alliance to end statelessness is crucial for ADRA. Imagine being born into statelessness, without belonging to any country. This reality means no birth certificate, no education, and no access to social security or healthcare unless someone intervenes. As we strive to end statelessness and support states in recognizing these individuals, ADRA is actively making strides in this area, particularly in Thailand,” Dr. Odeyemi emphasizes.
In its collaborative journey at the United Nations, ADRA continues to champion meaningful change and drive progress on global challenges.
