A Valuable Learning Opportunity
From 9–20 March 2026, I had the privilege of undertaking a two-week internship in Geneva through VIVAT International. This enriching experience provided me with first-hand exposure to advocacy at the United Nations Office in Geneva, particularly within the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC). It offered valuable insights into international human rights mechanisms, diplomatic engagement, and the significant role faith-based organizations play in promoting justice and human dignity.
Understanding Advocacy at the United Nations
The internship began with an in-depth orientation by Fr. Kachi Adindu, C.S.Sp., VIVAT International’s representative in Geneva. He introduced me to the mission and work of VIVAT at the UN, explaining its major advocacy priorities and the practical procedures involved in engaging with UN human rights mechanisms. This included preparing written and oral statements, participating in Council sessions, and collaborating with NGOs and other stakeholders.
I was also welcomed at Franciscan International, where I gained an understanding of the collaborative working environment among faith-based organizations involved in UN advocacy. This initial exposure highlighted how NGOs work together to advance justice, peace, and human rights at the international level.
Attending sessions of the Human Rights Council was one of the most significant aspects of the internship. Observing country statements, interactive dialogues, and diplomatic negotiations allowed me to witness international diplomacy in action. Discussions covered major global concerns such as migration policies, religious persecution, geopolitical tensions, and systemic human rights violations.
A particularly memorable session was the Joint Interactive Dialogue on the human rights situation in Iran. The discussion raised serious concerns regarding repression, restrictions on freedom, violence, and humanitarian suffering. It strongly underscored the urgency of coordinated international action and the shared responsibility of the global community to protect human dignity and fundamental rights.
My First UN Intervention
One of the most meaningful moments of the internship was the opportunity to deliver a statement during the General Debate on behalf of VIVAT International. This was my first intervention at the United Nations and a deeply significant experience. It provided practical exposure to diplomatic communication, advocacy language, and the procedural realities of participating in UN forums.
Lessons in Effective Advocacy
The internship also offered valuable lessons on effective advocacy. It became clear that successful engagement at the UN requires clear, well-structured, and respectful communication. Thorough research, awareness of historical context, and credibility in public interventions are essential. Understanding practical procedures such as speaker lists, intervention order, and formal diplomatic language also proved to be crucial.
Another important learning experience was the value of coalition building and strategic collaboration. Effective advocacy at the UN depends not only on presenting strong statements but also on working closely with NGOs, diplomats, and UN mechanisms such as Special Rapporteurs.
I also learned that international advocacy must be accompanied by consistent follow-up at national and local levels if lasting change is to be achieved. Advocacy becomes truly meaningful when global commitments are translated into practical action within communities.
Learning Through Collaboration
Interactions with representatives from organizations such as Edmund Rice International further expanded my understanding of advocacy work. Their insights into the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), training initiatives, and grassroots engagement reinforced the importance of networking, capacity building, and shared learning.
Conclusion
This internship significantly strengthened my understanding of UN human rights mechanisms and improved my advocacy and communication skills. It also deepened my awareness of global human rights challenges and the importance of linking global advocacy with local action.
Overall, this experience has been deeply enriching. It strengthened my commitment to justice, peace, and the dignity of every human person, while reaffirming the important contribution of faith-based organizations in promoting human rights on the global stage.
Acknowledgements
I express my sincere gratitude to VIVAT International for this valuable opportunity. I am especially thankful to Fr. Anselmo Ribero SVD, Sr. Miriam Altenhofen SSpS, and Sr. Gretta Fernandez SSpS for their support and encouragement. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to Mr. and Mrs. Blair Matheson for their generous hospitality and accommodation during my stay in Geneva. My deepest gratitude goes to Fr. Kachi Adindu, C.S.Sp., whose guidance, mentorship, and accompaniment made this internship truly meaningful and impactful.
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