India Elected to UN ECOSOC for 2026-28 Term: A Strategic Global Milestone

 

India's Election to ECOSOC

On June 4, 2025, India was elected to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for the term 2026-2028. The announcement was made by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who thanked the UN member states for their overwhelming support and trust in India. He also appreciated the efforts of India's Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York.

India's Commitment to Global Development

Minister Jaishankar emphasized India's continued commitment to championing development issues and strengthening the ECOSOC's mandate. He reaffirmed India's dedication to supporting global efforts aimed at sustainable development, inclusive growth, and coordinated international cooperation.

What is ECOSOC?

The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations, established under the UN Charter in 1945. It serves as the central platform for fostering international economic and social cooperation and development. ECOSOC plays a vital role in advancing the three pillars of sustainable development: economic, social, and environmental.

Functions and Responsibilities of ECOSOC

ECOSOC is responsible for:

• Promoting higher standards of living, full employment, and economic and social progress.

• Identifying solutions to international economic, social, and health problems.

• Facilitating international cultural and educational cooperation.

• Encouraging universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.

ECOSOC also oversees the activities of specialized UN agencies such as the WHO, UNESCO, and ILO. It is responsible for follow-ups on major UN conferences and summits, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Composition and Membership of ECOSOC

ECOSOC consists of 54 member states elected by the General Assembly for three-year terms. Seats are allocated based on equitable geographical representation:

• 14 from Africa

• 11 from Asia-Pacific

• 6 from Eastern Europe

• 10 from Latin America and the Caribbean

• 13 from Western Europe and other states

Each year, 18 new members are elected to ensure a rotating representation among UN member states.

How ECOSOC Supports Member Countries

ECOSOC helps countries achieve their development goals by:

• Coordinating development policies and assistance across the UN system.

• Offering a forum for policy dialogue between governments, UN bodies, and non-governmental actors.

• Facilitating access to data, resources, and best practices for achieving national and global development targets.

• Monitoring progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting accountability.

India's Role in ECOSOC

India’s election reinforces its global leadership in sustainable development and social equity. It allows India to:

• Influence the global development agenda.

• Strengthen partnerships with other nations on climate action, public health, digital inclusion, and gender equality.

• Highlight its domestic policy models that align with SDGs.

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Global Legacy Honored at UN

In April 2025, India’s Permanent Mission to the UN commemorated the 135th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar at the UN Headquarters. The theme of the event, "The timeless appeal of Dr. Ambedkar's vision within the UN and beyond," emphasized Ambedkar’s contribution to democratic governance, social justice, and constitutionalism—values that resonate with ECOSOC's mission.

Conclusion

India’s election to ECOSOC for the 2026–2028 term marks a significant milestone in its multilateral engagement. It reflects the global community’s confidence in India’s commitment to inclusive development and positions India to play a vital role in shaping the UN's socio-economic policy direction.