UNESCAP (United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific)

GS II: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate

• The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) is one of the regional commissions of the United Nations.
• UNESCAP plays a vital role in advancing regional cooperation and development in the Asia-Pacific region, contributing to the achievement of sustainable and inclusive growth for its member states.

Key points about UNESCAP

• Establishment
  • UNESCAP was established in 1947 with its headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand.
  • It is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations.
• Mandate
  • UNESCAP’s primary mandate is to promote regional cooperation and integration among its member states in the Asia-Pacific region.
  • It aims to support sustainable economic and social development, improve regional connectivity, and address various challenges facing the region.
• Membership
  • UNESCAP’s membership includes 53 member states from Asia and the Pacific.
  • It serves as a platform for these countries to collaborate on regional development issues.
• Focus Areas
  • UNESCAP works across a wide range of focus areas, including economic development, trade, infrastructure development, social development, environmental sustainability, disaster risk reduction, and data and statistics.
• Research and Analysis
  • UNESCAP conducts research and analysis on various topics relevant to the region.
  • It produces reports, publications, and data to support evidence-based policymaking.
• Policy Advice
  • The commission provides policy advice and technical assistance to member states to help them address development challenges and achieve their sustainable development goals.
• Regional Initiatives
  • UNESCAP facilitates and supports regional initiatives and projects to promote economic growth, reduce poverty, and enhance the people’s overall well-being in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
  • UNESCAP aligns its work with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, working closely with member states to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in the region.
• Meetings and Conferences
  • The commission organizes various meetings, conferences, and events where member states, policymakers, experts, and stakeholders can come together to discuss regional challenges and opportunities.
• Partnerships
  • UNESCAP collaborates with other United Nations agencies, regional organizations, civil society, and the private sector to leverage resources and expertise in addressing development issues.