Soroptimist International Projects
Working with the United Nations
Soroptimist International's relationship with the UN is based on the belief that real and positive change can be achieved incrementally, if we are really determined and willing to work together with other organizations and authorities.
Working with NGOs and Other AgenciesSoroptimist International works together with other non-government organizations (NGOs) and various United Nations agencies to promote the changes necessary to make the world a better place for this and future generations.
The organization is represented on the Board of the Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations (CONGO) and has General Consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council, ECOSOC. By right of General Consultative Status with ECOSOC SI has been granted official relations with United Nations Specialised Agencies including:
The organization is also accredited with a number of ECOSOC 's non-specialised agencies and commissions including:
Soroptimist International has permanent, volunteer Representatives to the major United Nations centres in New York, Geneva and Vienna, UNESCO in Paris, the FAO in Rome, and UNEP in Nairobi.
It also currently has Representatives at the UN Regional Commissions in Western Asia (ESCWA); South America (ECLAC); and Asia Pacific (ESCAP).
These Representatives attend a broad range of meetings and committees, reporting back to the membership and making recommendations for the Soroptimist Programme of Service.
Soroptimist DelegationsSoroptimists are present as accredited delegates at NGO Forums at most major International and UN Forums and Summits where the issues directly affect women. Statements are prepared outlining Soroptimist concerns and recommendations for action are made in relation to the issues under discussion.
The SI Programme Team produces brochures to distribute to other delegates (both government and other NGOs) outlining the Soroptimist position and Programme Action within the issues that are the focus of the particular meeting. These brochures are also made available to SI members.
To learn more, visit http://www.soroptimistinternational.org/html/united_nations.html.
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