Join Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights and the John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights for a virtual learning session exploring the meaning, process, and relevance of achieving consultative status at the UN Economic and Social Council for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Canada.
ECOSOC Status: Why is it important for Canadian organizations?
January 28, 2026 | 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM MST | I Online only
The presence of CSOs in multilateral platforms is crucial. Their participation not only demonstrates that civil society has a rightful place at the decision-making table but also ensures greater accountability from governments. However, many CSOs are unable to participate because they are unaware of the opportunity or lack ECOSOC status. Organizations without status rely on larger international organizations to represent their perspectives.
Strengthening CSO engagement in UN processes can help bridge the gap between Canada's international commitments and its domestic policies. Additionally, well-equipped CSOs can advocate more effectively for human rights both domestically and in multilateral fora.
Objectives:
Raise Awareness: Enhance CSOs' understanding of the importance of ECOSOC status as a tool to strengthen advocacy and advance human rights in Canada and globally.
Build Capacity: Provide practical tools, guidelines, and support for CSOs interested in applying for consultative status.
Promote Knowledge Sharing: Facilitate exchanges between CSOs and human rights experts on leveraging ECOSOC status to reinforce the implementation of international human rights obligations.