“The United Nations Preamble speaks of ‘the dignity and worth of the human person’. I see spirituality as being the key to be able to recognise one’s own inner dignity and to see others with that vision of dignity.

The UNESCO charter Preamble states that ‘since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defences of peace must be constructed.’ Spirituality helps me to understand that peace is within the self and so to be able to experience inner peace and help create a peaceful world.

The Brahma Kumaris’ relationship with the United Nations began on the basis of these two statements. We have been associated with the UN since 1980 and today hold General Consultative Status. The recognition of the Brahma Kumaris as the first spiritual organisation from the East to be given General Consultative Status is an indication that governments acknowledge that the lack of spiritual values lie at the heart of the critical issues facing the world today and it is through raising consciousness that these problems can be addressed.”