Welcome
Bringing the voices of civil society to the United Nations
A world where social development is inclusive, rights-based, and people-centered.
Second World Social Summit Informational Sessions
We warmly invite all civil society organizations to join our upcoming virtual informational session, in preparation for the Second World Social Summit (WSSD2), scheduled to take place from November 4 to 6. This meeting will provide key updates, build solidarity, and align our shared vision toward advancing a more just and inclusive global future.
Second Informational Session
- Wednesday, September 17 2025
- 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Who we are
Elevating the voices of civil society
The NGO Committee for Social Development (NGO CSOCD) is a coalition of non-governmental organizations in consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). It works to ensure that the perspectives of civil society, especially marginalized and grassroots communities, are heard in UN decision-making processes related to social development. With a focus on:
Policy Advocacy
The Committee submits joint statements and position papers to the Commission for Social Development (CSocD) and other UN bodies, influencing international social development policy with civil society input.
Civil Society Forum
It organizes the annual Civil Society Forum ahead of the CSocD session. This forum gathers NGOs, activists, and community leaders to discuss priorities and share experiences, culminating in a Civil Society Declaration that is presented at the Commission.
Civil Society Forum Schedule – 5–6 November 2025
CSO Luncheon Reception – Advancing Global Social Development & Social Justice
Capacity Building
NGO CSOCD strengthens the ability of grassroots organizations and smaller NGOs to engage with UN processes by providing guidance, platforms, and networking opportunities.
Bridge Between NGOs and the UN
The Committee acts as a liaison, helping civil society understand UN mechanisms and ensuring that UN officials hear directly from those impacted by its policies.
Closing Panel – 6 November 2025
What we do
Blog/Newsletter
Tale of Two Summits: From Copenhagen’s Spring to Doha’s Desert
Author: Maria Fornella-Oehninger Soroptimist International Representative to the UN, NYHQ From 4–6 November 2025 in Doha,…
The 10 Commitments of Copenhagen and expectations for the Second World Social Summit
Author: Sarah Ben-Farhat Thirty years after the historic Copenhagen Declaration on Social Development was finalized at…
Reflections on the 2025 UN Ocean Conference: Linking Ocean Action to Social Development
Author: Marides Santos The 2025 UN Ocean Conference in Nice was a wake-up call—and an opportunity.…