United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) 

(Beginner – Single Delegate)
The United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is one of the six main organs of the UN, focusing on the three dimensions of sustainable development – economic, social and environmental. The UN Charter mandates ECOSOC to promote higher standards of living, full employment, and economic and social progress; solutions of international economic, social and health problems; international cultural and educational cooperation; and universal respect for, and observance of, human rights and fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion. To achieve that objective, ECOSOC is overseeing the many subsidiary bodies and has a mandate as a coordinator, convener and specialized body for policy dialogue, policy-making and forging of consensus towards the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Topic: Strengthening Indigenous Participation in Social-Economical Development

One of the aim of Sustainable Development Goal 10 is to empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status. Therefore, dispersed, discriminated, and disadvantaged, indigenous populations become an important actor the international community has to further cater upon. As natives, the indigenous population holds an important role as manager of their land. This role often is conflicted with competition from various stakeholders in regards to socio-economic developments. As development becomes more rampant in the 21st century, more often than not, private and public enterprises would do whatever it takes to increase profit and growth with little to no regard towards the sanctity of indigenous rights. This serious issue further pushes the importance of inclusivity of the indigenous community when it comes to socio-economic development. To that, the question arises. How can delegates protect the rights of indigenous population and increase their participation while also maintaining sustainable development? This becomes the question that the delegates of ECOSOC are invited to answer throughout the committee sessions.