Builders of Peace and Development

Builders of Peace and Development

The Salesian Commitment in International Arenas

(ANS – New York – July 18, 2025) – From July 14 to 25, the High-Level Political Forum is taking place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The Salesian Congregation, represented by Fr. Rafael Bejarano, general councilor for youth ministry, Fr. Mathew Thomas Panamkattu, the representative of the Salesians to the U.N., Fr. Antoine Farrugia, and Sara Sechi, is actively participating in this significant global event. This presence, supported by Salesian Missions of New Rochelle, highlights the Congregation’s commitment to global advocacy, particularly in connecting its work with the U.N.’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Fr. Bejarano emphasized the deeply Salesian approach to promoting justice and peace, quoting Pope Paul VI: “Development is the new name for peace” (Populorum Progressio). He stated: “As Salesians, we work tirelessly to create a society more worthy of the human person. Our Constitutions call us to collaborate with all those building a better and more just world.”

The advocacy team of the Youth Ministry Department is working at the forum to amplify the voices of the most marginalized youths worldwide. Across six continents, Salesian environments—schools, parishes, centers supporting vulnerable and excluded youngsters, universities, technical training centers, and youth centers—operate with professionalism and apostolic passion.

Fr. Bejarano also highlighted the importance of the Salesian presence in international forums: “For nearly two decades, the Salesians have maintained accredited representation at the European Union in Brussels through Don Bosco International (DBI) and at the United Nations in New York through Don Bosco United Nations (DB UN). This ensures that our grassroots work is connected to global dialogue, fostering justice, peace, and integral human development.”