Partnering with the United Nations

In the recent half-century, we have seen the birth of a new civil society, where non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have dramatically increased in number, diversity, and influence, forging an effective middle ground between governments and corporations. NGOs are more and more impacting governmental and intergovernmental policies, providing voices for important causes and constituencies, offering analyses and expertise, and performing varied services and humanitarian functions.

Since its founding in 1945, the United Nations has maintained relations with NGOs, who represent the concerns of civil society throughout the world. These relationships have been formalized in a number of United Nations resolutions, which derive from the United Nations Charter itself. As stated in Article 71 of the Charter: “The Economic and Social Council may make suitable arrangements for consultation with non-governmental organizations which are concerned with matters within its competence.” Indeed, the preamble of the U.N. Charter begins “We, the peoples of the United Nations,” which has come to mean both Member States and civil society.

In essence, there are four primary ways in which NGOs partner with the United Nations.

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