The 23^rd coordination and management meeting was held at ECOSOC on 12 June. This high panel discussion gathered representatives of CSOD, UN Habitat and CEB to discuss the drafted resolution on social development and human settlements. “Promoting empowerment of people in achieving poverty eradication, social integration and decent work for all is the priority theme”, representative of CSOD said in her introductory statement. She highlighted the critical importance of empowerment in accelerating the implementation of the Millennium Development Goals. In light of that, she stressed that synergies must be created between empowerment policies and the current work to strengthen the three pillars of sustainable development. She repeatedly emphasized the need for increased and effective participation by youth in decision-making processes at all levels, including the post-2015 processes.

Director of UN-Habitat reported the role of UN-Habitat at the global level, which aims at working with a wide range of partners to prepare and consult the post-2015 development agenda and sustainable development goals. It also closely cooperates with international financial institutions and the International Aid Transparency Initiative. She suggested several recommendations on implementing the Habitat Agenda. She pointed out the need of appropriate consideration on the role of urbanization for better implementation of sectorial policies within cities and urban settlements. This would enhance economic productivity and equity, to implement economic empowerment programs that create opportunities for the youth and women.

Ms. Simona outlined the five transformational shifts that are required to drive the universal post-2015 development agenda, including leaving no one behind, putting sustainable development at the core, transforming economics for jobs and inclusive growth, building peace and effective, open and accountable institutions for all and forging a new global partnership. She concluded by highlighting the five critical interlinked elements for the post-2015 development agenda: universality, integration, equality, human rights and data revolution.

Meeting Title: 23^rd coordination and management meeting: Social development and human settlements
Speakers: Ms. Sewa Lamsal Adhikari, Chair of CSOD 52; Ms. Simona Mirela Miculescu, Chair of CSOD 53; Director of UN-Habitat, Ms. Simona Petrova, Director of the Chief Executive Board (CEB) Secretariat
Location: United Nations HQ, ECOSOC
Date: 12 June 2014
Written By WIT representative: Samantha Kong