By Sr. Carol Breslin, MMM

In September 2024, I once again represented MMM at the UNANIMA International (UI) board meeting in New York. UI now represents 25 congregations of women religious with ministries in 100 countries. It advocates at the United Nations on behalf of women, children, girls and other marginalised groups: the homeless, victims of human trafficking, immigrants, refugees, and the environment.
We aim to educate and influence policymakers at the global level. Through UNANIMA, MMM participates in Religious at the UN (RUN), a support group for religious organisations who advocate at the UN. UI is also a member of the Justice Coalition of Religious, which represents over 200 congregations.
The latest UNANIMA International update, available online (www.unanima-international.org) includes a story about MMM’s involvement with displaced people in northern Nigeria. The Executive Director’s Report shows a wide range of involvement in advocacy activities.
A Grassroots Story:
UI meetings include sharing stories on our ministries. I spoke about obstetric fistula, an issue of special concern for MMM. I described the causes of obstetric fistula and gynaecological fistula. The latter has become increasingly common in conflict zones, where rape is used as a weapon against female civilians and their communities
Prevention of obstetric fistula is critical, and includes access to education and basic health care and nutrition for girls, delaying the age of marriage and first pregnancy, basic obstetric care, and supervision and training of midwives and young doctors. The basic rights of women and girls in society must be promoted and men and boys need to be involved. In addition, surveys are needed to have accurate figures about the condition’s incidence and prevalence.
MMM has had a special role in developing services for girls and women affected by obstetric fistula in East and West Africa. Currently, at the Family Life Centre/VVF Hospital in Itam, Nigeria, there are regular surgical repair camps and more energy is being put into awareness-raising activities – at local gatherings and in remote areas. Staff provide maternal and child health clinics and Caesarean sections when needed.
Despite these efforts, obstetric fistula remains a public health concern, with a growing incidence in the Itam area. The SafeBirth4All Campaign was launched in Ireland in May 2024, a part of MMM’s involvement in obstetric fistula prevention and advocacy. Other issues
At this meeting, we decided to present the 2025 UI Woman of Courage Award to Juana García Valverde, a Spanish laywoman who has advocated for the most disadvantaged in Ancash, Peru, a Quechua-speaking area, for 41 years. She started a medical center and a homeless shelter, supporting the elderly and the hungry, often facing opposition from Peruvian state institutions.
The award honours women who have exhibited exceptional courage and leadership, especially to better the lives of women and children in their communities.
Sister Patricia Murray, IBVM, of the International Union of Superiors General, led a reflection on synodality and the future direction of UI.
Sister Maria Gonzaga Namuyomba, of our MMM Congregational Leadership Team, and MMM CPO Jacqueline McAuley, participated via Zoom. I was confirmed as a member of the By-laws and Policies Committee and am a member of a new Expanded Executive Committee. It is great to be part of MMM’s advocacy work in promoting the advancement of women and children.