Pakistan wins seat on United Nations Economic, Social Council as UNGA votes for new members. It served as the body’s president in 1952, 1957, 1975, 1995, 2005, and 2020.
Pakistan has been elected as a member of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) by the United Nations General Assembly. This election was held yesterday in New York, and Pakistan has been elected for the next 3-year term, which will end in 2026. Pakistan has been a member of ECOSOC for the last 11 years.
The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is one of the six main organs of the United Nations. It is responsible for promoting international economic and social cooperation and development. ECOSOC strives to achieve sustainable development by accelerating progress through a partnership with the member states. Cooperating for development, and providing humanitarian assistance.
The 54-member ECOSOC is the third principal UN organ. Along with the General Assembly and Security Council. Established in 1945 to promote international economic cooperation and oversee the work of all international economic organisations.
In his acceptance speech, Ambassador Akram outlined the objectives of the Pakistan presidency.
He said “UN member states today faced three simultaneous challenges: the Covid-19 health and economic crisis. The realisation of the Sustainable Development Goals and the existential threat of climate change. The commitments made in each area must be implemented”, he added.
Ambassador’s remarks
Stressing the need to end inequality among and within nations. Akram expressed the hope that a Covid-19 vaccine would be developed soon. “Everyone, everywhere — rich or poor — must have equal access to the vaccine,” he stressed.
The envoy proposed that in the coming year. ECOSOC should focus on financing for Covid-19, SDGs, and climate change goals. Sustainable infrastructure investment; and application of advanced science and technology for development. He said he would convene special meetings to advance action in these areas.
He recalled the call by Prime Minister Imran Khan for a “Global Initiative on Debt Relief”. And mentioned the proposals for new special drawing rights (SDRs) and other financing proposals under consideration.
Others elected on the Asian seats are: Japan (127 votes) and Nepal (145 votes). Iraq, with 50 votes, and Tajikistan, with 120 votes, did not make it.
Pakistan has in the past served on the ECOSOC 10 times. In the capacity as the 54-member body’s President six times in 1952, 1957, 1975, 1995, 2005 and 2020.
