LGW at the UN: Diplomacy in the Service of Jesus

Since 1994, the Legion of Good Will (LGW) has been an active voice within the United Nations (UN), promoting an Ecumenical Culture as an essential strategy for Peace and Social Justice. Its recommendations are grounded in the many articles written by the President of the LGW, José de Paiva Netto, who advocates that “social reform comes through spiritual reform.” For over 30 years, the LGW has contributed to the global sustainable development agenda, offering recommendations based on best practices implemented in the seven countries where it operates (Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Portugal, and the United States), throughout its 75 years of existence.

The LGW does not merely speak about universal values—it embodies them every day through its initiatives in Social Assistance, Education, and Social Communication with Ecumenical Spirituality, positively impacting millions of people, especially those in vulnerable situations. At a time of significant political, socioeconomic, and environmental instability worldwide, the LGW’s presence at the UN becomes even more relevant, bringing a spiritual and fraternal approach to concrete solutions.

The foundation of the LGW’s mission at the UN is Jesus’ New Commandment: “Love one another, as I have loved you” (The Gospel according to John 13:34). This principle of Love and universal Solidarity is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as only through respect, cooperation, and empathy can we build a more just and peaceful world. As part of its diplomatic contribution, the LGW submits reports, shares its unique methodology, and reinforces its humanitarian vision in various multilateral spaces.

Danilo Parmegiani, representative of the Legion of Good Will and of its President, Paiva Netto, speaks at the head of the table during his address at the UN.

In addition to its written statements, officially endorsed and translated by the UN for the international community, the LGW is also invited to present its transformative vision at high-level events. In February 2024, the LGW participated in the event “Restoring Human Dignity as a Natural Resource: Incorporating Dignity in Combating Poverty to Optimize Resources,” sharing its approach to fighting poverty by strengthening human dignity.

In March, the Organization was present at the Commission on the Status of Women, in a thematic panel at the Harvard Club in New York, highlighting its work in valuing women and girls in vulnerable situations. Then, in July, the LGW led an ecumenical gathering at the High-Level Political Forum of the UN Economic and Social Council, in partnership with the NGO Committee on Spirituality, Values and Global Concerns. The theme “Breaking Bread: Fostering Unity and Compassion to End Poverty” revisited the teachings of Jesus and proposed Solidarity as a response to multiple social crises. This initiative reinforces that, in times of global uncertainty, strengthening spiritual values and Solidarity is fundamental to building a sustainable and humane future.

In October, the LGW coordinated the 19th edition of the Spirit of the United Nations Award, organized by the Committee on Spirituality, Values and Global Concerns – New York (CSVGC-NY). The event recognized international leaders committed to the values and founding principles of the UN, with the presence of ambassadors, heads of UN agencies, and civil society. Representatives of the Legion of Good Will highlighted the following quote by Paiva Netto to the authorities attending the meeting: “When the territory is not defended by the righteous ones, the wicked make ‘just’ the victory of injustice.”

The LGW’s work at the UN is consolidated as a powerful diplomatic leadership in defense of universal values and the Ecumenical Culture for the promotion of Peace and Social Equity. Amid increasing conflicts and inequalities, this representation becomes even more necessary, as it advocates for public policies rooted in spiritual and humanitarian principles. Over the decades, the LGW has demonstrated that living in Solidarity and Love is the key to transforming societies and ensuring a more dignified future for all.