Welcome to the United Nations 
By H.E. Mr. Lok Bahadur Thapa, President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council
In 2026, the United Nations and the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) will mark 80 years of service to humanity.
For eight decades, ECOSOC has been at the heart of global efforts to advance peace, prosperity, and dignity for all. It has helped shape the world we know today - from establishing the Commission on Human Rights, which guided the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, to endorsing the creation of UNAIDS, and establishing the Ad Hoc Advisory Groups for African countries emerging from conflict and on Haiti, which pioneered integrated approaches to recovery and development.
Equally important, ECOSOC has long served as a gateway for civil society engagement with the United Nations. Through thousands of NGOs with consultative status, people from all walks of live - communities, youth, innovators and changemakers - have found a voice in shaping global priorities. ECOSOC connects the UN directly to those it serves, keeping its work grounded in people’s real experiences and aspirations.
As we mark this milestone in a world of profound challenges - conflict, climate change, and inequalities - and opportunities to renew trust and cooperation, we are reminded of a strong United Nations: One that continues to adapt, inspire, and deliver for people and planet.
The 80th anniversary of ECOSOC is not only a time to reflect on ECOSOC’s achievements but also to look ahead - to a Council that continues to evolve and inspire action. Through its platforms such as the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, ECOSOC remains central to advancing the 2030 Agenda - enabling countries to share lessons, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.
During Nepal’s presidency, my focus is to deliver better – by transforming food systems, advancing digital inclusion and youth entrepreneurship, accelerating climate action and resilience, and mobilizing financing for sustainable development.
Throughout the tenure, I emphasize the imperative of revitalizing multilateralism and rebuilding trust, accelerating progress on the 2030 Agenda, enhancing coherence across the UN System, fostering dynamic partnerships and synergy, and ensuring robust and effective implementation and follow-up to translate ambition into real action.
I will also make every effort to support countries in special situations – Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). These nations face unique challenges that require solutions built on equity, resilience, and global solidarity.
At 80, ECOSOC remains a beacon of hope and progress - proof that multilateralism works when we act together. Its history reminds us of what we can achieve when nations join around a common purpose. Its future depends on our determination to keep that spirit alive - for people, planet, and for a better tomorrow. Let’s seize the moment to deliver better, faster, and together.