On Wednesday, December 2, 1998, the Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) of the United Nations Department of Public Information (DPI), granted DPI association to the World Chiropractic Alliance (WCA) and 19 other NGOs from nine countries.

The WCA was chosen because of its strong public information outreach, the principal criterion used by the Committee in making its decision.

The NGOs newly associated with DPI include 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.

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.

Upon hearing the announcement, Rondberg asked Christopher Kent, D.C., to serve as the WCA liaison to the U.N. "I know of no other person so well qualified to act as our profession's representative to the world community," he noted when informed of Dr. Kent's acceptance. "Dr. Kent offers a unique combination of credentials, expertise and communication skills which will help the WCA, and chiropractic, make the most of this great opportunity."

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 ICA in 1991. He is director of research for EMG Consultants, Inc., and a co-founder of Paradigm Partners, Inc. and the Chiropractic Leadership Alliance.

Displaying a strong philosophical foundation which is on par with his technical expertise, Kent co-produces -- with Dr. Patrick Gentempo -- a monthly audiotape journal, "On Purpose," covering current events in science, philosophy, and politics of vital interest to the practicing chiropractor.

The appointment provides Kent with a grounds pass granting access to U.N. facilities, including the NGO Resource Center. He is also permitted to attend all open meetings to United Nations bodies as an observer.

"This is an exciting new opportunity for me and subluxation-centered chiropractic," Kent stated. "I look forward to ensuring that our professional identity is accurately represented on an international level."

Kent noted that his close proximity to the U.N. headquarters in New York City would enable him to attend most of the weekly NGO briefings, as well as other relevant activities.

Rondberg, Kent and WCA Vice President Timothy Feuling, met with U.N. officials shortly after the announcement was made. He described the meeting as "cordial and very productive." The officials were, in his words, "very open to information about chiropractic and are optimistic that the World Chiropractic Alliance will provide a line of communication between the chiropractic profession and the world community."

The WCA president also expressed his desire to establish closer relations with other NGOs involved in health care, as well as with the World Health Organization.