The International Consortium for Social Development (ICSD) was granted ECOSOC consultative status with the UN in August 2025. To facilitate our engagement in United Nations (UN) social development processes, the ICSD board adopted preliminary guidelines to govern its activities over the next three years.

The strategy aims to strengthen ICSD’s participation in global social policy dialogue, particularly through the UN Commission for Social Development (CSocD) and the NGO Commission for Social development (NGO CSocD) while aligning engagement with the organization’s mission to eradicate poverty, promote social equality, social integration and advance ecological sustainability.

The guidelines establish a structured but pragmatic framework for ICSD’s participation in UN systems. Engagement will focus on implementation of the Doha Political Declaration of the Second World Summit for Social Development (SWSSD) and Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). ICSD intends to deepen its visibility and influence through learning-based engagement, partnerships with like-minded organizations, coalition building, and evidence-based advocacy.

A key strategic direction is the strengthening of member and regional branch participation in UN processes. The organization seeks to facilitate involvement through written and oral statements, side events, collaborative research, regional participation, and communication platforms. The strategy also emphasizes cooperation with like-minded international organizations.

The guidelines establish governance arrangements for ICSD’s UN engagement, including the appointment of six representatives who will form an ICSD-UN Engagement Sub-Committee. This body will coordinate strategy implementation, reporting, monitoring, and communication with the Board and members. Clear accountability structures, reporting expectations, appointment criteria, and performance management procedures are outlined to ensure transparency and effective representation.

The focus will be on thematic priorities and practical approaches to participation, including virtual engagements where possible. Annual reviews will be conducted by the committee to refine the strategy over time.

Call ICSD members for expressions of interest to represent the ICSD in UN activities

The ICSD will appoint six representatives entitled to UN passes:

• President (or nominee)
• One focal point coordinator
• One NGO CSocD representative
• Three regional focal point representatives

The representatives will:

• Direct and coordinate participation in UN processes
• Monitor developments
• Build partnerships and coalitions
• Facilitate regional engagement
• Produce annual reports
• Communicate activities to members and branches

Term of appointment 

• Appointments are for three years, renewable based on performance.
• Performance indicators include:
  • Meeting attendance
  • Reporting and communication with members
  • Leadership and networking
  • Active engagement
  • Collaboration with partners

Appointment process

The President will establish a five-member appointment committee.

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Expertise in social development
• Knowledge of the Doha Declaration
• Some experience with UN processes
• Coalition-building skills
• Diplomacy and negotiation skills
• Ability to fund participation in UN meetings

Application Process

Applicants must submit:

• Letter of motivation
• Updated CV
• Funding plan for participation

Closing date for submissions of expressions of interest: Friday 19 June 2026

Submit applications to: Dr Mahesh Chagoule, Secretary General. Email:  maheshmsw7@gmail.com