News February 2007

Dr Gallagher faces snow obstacles in reaching the UN headquarters in New York

Adventist Representative Commends UN Initiative to Curb Violence against Women

New York, NY… Far more action is needed to curb the world-wide problem of violence directed against women, according to Dr. Jonathan Gallagher, the Seventh-day Adventist Church's representative to the United Nations. Attending a UN policy summit on gender issues held in New York on February 15, Gallagher commended the ongoing UN initiative designed to develop practical methods to end gender-related violence and discrimination.

"Women and girls continue to experience violence at intolerably high levels," comments Gallagher. "Combating this evil must be a top priority for both governments and civil society, and we welcome initiatives designed to highlight and prevent such abuses. As a church we deplore violence, especially that directed at women, and are actively involved in changing mindsets that accept such unacceptable behavior."

The UN continues to address gender issues at such meetings and the upcoming Commission on the Status of Women February 26-March 9. "I'm delighted that there will be a significant Adventist presence at this important UN Commission with a delegation of women leaders in attendance," Gallagher adds. "It is part of our theology and mission to ensure that every individual made in the image of God is treated with dignity and respect. Violence against women has no place in our world and as agents for change in our communities we must continue to work to end such offensive abuses." [PARL News]

Panel presentation in progress

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