Why is advocacy important?

World Vision bases its advocacy work on the same values that shape our humanitarian work: our Christian commitment.

We believe that the person of Jesus Christ provides the model and basis for our advocacy—namely, His identification with the poor, the afflicted, the oppressed, and the marginalized; His special concern for children; His respect for the dignity God bestows on women and men; His willingness to challenge unjust attitudes and systems; His call to share our resources with each other; His love for all people without discrimination or conditions; and His offer of new life through faith in Him.

From Jesus we derive our holistic understanding of the gospel of the kingdom of God, which forms the basis of our response to human need.

World Vision’s advocacy work is also based on our commitment to the poor.

We are called to aid people in great need—to relieve their suffering and to help transform their condition of life.

We stand in solidarity with the poor in a common search for justice, seeking to understand their situation and working alongside them to experience fullness of life. We strive to facilitate engagement between the poor and the affluent in ways that open both to transformation.

We respect the poor as active participants, not passive recipients, in this relationship. They are people from whom others may learn and receive. The need for transformation is common to all. Together we share this quest for justice, peace, reconciliation, and healing in our broken world.

Advocacy is also a practical tool to reduce poverty and injustice by empowering both the poor and those who are concerned about them. Our response to poverty and injustice requires us to work for policy change and challenge those who withhold justice. Effective advocacy both immediate issues and the root causes—whether with governments, religious institutions, the general public, or all of these.

An essential element of advocacy is building a relationship with those whose needs are underrepresented and bringing their interests to the attention of governments, businesses, churches, or the general public in ways that address them effectively. Being a compelling advocate may begin with raising awareness in your household, community, workplace, or local church. As Americans, we have a unique privilege and responsibility to be a voice for those who otherwise may not be heard.

What is advocacy? | What is public policy? | What is lobbying?