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- Economic and Social Council
#ECOSOC80: A Turning Point for Multilateralism
On 23 January 2026, the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is marking its 80th anniversary. Established in 1945 by the Charter of the United Nations, ECOSOC held its first meeting on 23 January 1946. Its mandate – to coordinate the economic, social, and cultural activities of the United Nations and promote international cooperation and development – has placed it at the heart of advancing the principles of the UN Charter. Multilateralism, inclusivity, and global solidarity have been central to ECOSOC’s mission from the outset.
For eight decades, ECOSOC has provided a unique platform where Member States, the UN system, civil society, and other stakeholders come together to address the world’s most pressing challenges. From post-war recovery and decolonization to climate change, inequality, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, ECOSOC has helped guide international responses and foster collective action for a more just, sustainable, and peaceful world. More on ECOSOC
“We need to reflect on the legacy of ECOSOC and reaffirm its central role in shaping a more inclusive, resilient, and forward-looking multilateral system.”
Shaping Global Development Agendas
ECOSOC drives progress on the 2030 Agenda forward
Promoting Multilateralism and Solidarity
ECOSOC brings cooperation across nations.
Strengthening participation
ECOSOC gathers diverse voices from around the world
Coordinating the UN System
ECOSOC brings together the UN system around shared goals.