United Nations
The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate represents its members at the United Nations through its affiliation with DPI-NGO 
(Department of Public Information and Non-Governmental Organizations) and ECOSOC (Economic and Social Council of the UN) through VIVAT International. VIVAT International is a consortium of religious congregations which have joined to be recognized as one by ECOSOC. Members include the Divine Word (SVD), Holy Spirit Sisters (SSpS), Adorers of the Blood of Christ (ASC), Combonis (MCCJ), Comboni Missionary Sisters (CMS), Holy Rosary Sisters (MSHR), Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) and the Spiritans (CSSp).
The Oblates and other missionary congregations involved in VIVAT work throughout the world, primarily with the poor. Although the United Nations is an international organization run by and representing nation states, there is an important role for NGOs and civil society representatives. NGO representatives can participate in UN fora, submitting comments and organizing side events. They can be present at most open sessions and actively monitor the discussions. They have a voice in some formal session, such as the preparatory high level meetings convened on Financing for Development and are invited to participate in roundtables.
Frequent contact with country representatives and UN personnel give us the opportunity to bring to their attention the realities and perspectives of those around the world with whom we work. Often the information and experiences we are able to share are unique and deeply appreciated.
Rev. Daniel LeBlanc, OMI, Associate, International JPIC Office and Oblate UN Representative – New York, NY
Daniel has been a member of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate since 1971. Daniel is Canadian, but worked in Peru from 1978 until his appointment to the Oblates’ General Administration JPIC Office in April 2007. He represents the Oblate Congregation, recognized as an NGO at the United Nations, where he follows the work of the Commissions on Social Development, including the sub-committee on the eradication of poverty, Sustainable Development, the Forum on Indigenous Peoples, Financing for Development and Migration. In this work, he collaborates closely with VIVAT International.
During his thirty years in Peru, Daniel served as pastor of several parishes in the Diocese of Carabayllo (Lima) and in the high jungle. He worked on a variety of justice issues from assisting victims of terrorism to investigating mass graves and helping to bring perpetrators to justice. He also studied law at the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (PUCP). For many years, he was a member, as well as Chair, of the Latin American OMI Commission of Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC).
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