Conferences at the UN
NGO Participation
Since 2006, IRSAM has been accredited special consultative status to the Economic and Social Council of United Nations as a non-governmental organization. Part of this accreditation includes observational participation in several conferences that take place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, New York. In the past, IRSAM has sent a small delegation to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, held annually in early March. As the principal global policy-making body, the conference is dedicated exclusively to gender equality and advancement of women. Those interested in attending the 56th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women can find the application here, due Thursday November 24th to Zara Ansari, VP External at external@irsam.ca.
Every year, representatives of Member States gather at United Nations Headquarters in New York to evaluate progress on gender equality, identify challenges, set global standards and formulate concrete policies to promote gender equality and advancement of women worldwide. Since accreditation, IRSAM has been invited to attend the UNCSW along with other NGOs that are parties to the ECOSOC to observe the discussion surrounding these issues and the formulation of international policy to address them. Along with observing delegates in their throughtful discussion, IRSAM also participated in interactive side events including those hosted by various consulates and organizations.
In addition to attending UN Women, IRSAM looks forward to expanding its NGO participation at other conferences of the United Nations in New York City and Geneva, Switzerland.