The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), one of the six main organs of the United Nations established by the UN Charter in 1946, is the principal body for coordination, policy review, policy dialogue, and recommendations on economic, social, and environmental issues, as well as for implementation of the internationally agreed development goals. ECOSOC serves as the central mechanism for the activities of the United Nations system and its specialized agencies and supervises the subsidiary and expert bodies in the economic and social fields. It works to promote sustainable development, build partnerships, engage the youth in economics, and advance the integration of economic and social policies.

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The main goals of the council include promoting sustainable development, coordinating humanitarian action, providing coordination and oversight, building partnerships, raising awareness on emerging issues, working with civil society, and engaging youth. The council holds particular significance for East Asia and the Pacific, a region characterized by both rapid economic growth and persistent inequalities. ECOSOC supports regional cooperation to address challenges such as urbanization, income disparity, aging populations, and environmental vulnerability. It plays a key role in guiding responses to natural disasters and strengthening social safety nets, especially in small island developing states. ECOSOC also encourages the use of science, technology, and innovation to accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals, while promoting inclusive economic strategies that balance development with environmental sustainability and cultural preservation.

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