July 2005

WCA receives NGO 'good standing' report

In response to the report submitted to Paul Hoeffel, chief of the NGO Section of the Department of Public Information (DPI) at the United Nations, the World Chiropractic Alliance (WCA) has been informed that it remains "in good standing" as a non‑governmental organization.

The WCA ‑‑ which was first awarded NGO status on December 2, 1998 ‑‑ was among 19 organizations around the world to be chosen to fulfill that important role at that time. The NGOs newly associated with DPI included organizations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. According to the United Nation's announcement, "These organizations represent a diverse range of interests, including the rights of indigenous and disabled people, women and youth, human settlement and disarmament. Several of the NGOs conduct research and promote education on peacekeeping, conflict resolution and reconciliation."

The WCA was the only newly recognized organization specifically involved in health care and public information on health issues and was selected, in part, because of its established record in effectively communicating to the global chiropractic community as well as to the general public.

Organizations eligible for association with DPI must share the ideals of the United Nations charter, operate on a not‑for‑profit basis, and demonstrate an interest in United Nations issues. In addition, they must have a proven ability to reach large or specialized audiences with well‑developed information programs.

To reach its decision, the United Nations reviewed many of the publications produced by the WCA, including The Chiropractic Journal and Health Watch.

Christopher Kent, DC, served as the WCA liaison to the UN and went on to become treasurer, and then president, of the NGO Health Committee. That Committee is comprised of approximately 100 members from 18 countries, representing NGOs interested in health issues, along with representatives from six academic and research institutions and five representatives from the private sector.

Dr. Kent is president of the Council on Chiropractic Practice and was named "Chiropractic Researcher of the Year" by the World Chiropractic Alliance in 1994, an award he also won from the International Chiropractors Association in 1991. He is director of research for EMG Consultants, Inc., and a co‑founder of Paradigm Partners, Inc. and the Chiropractic Leadership Alliance.

Periodically, the WCA must file a complete report with Mr. Hoeffel, outlining in detail the ways in which it has fulfilled its responsibilities as an NGO, and its participation in global health care efforts. The most recent report was printed in the June issue of The Chiropractic Journal and is also available online at www.worldchiropracticalliance.org.