Bob Rae, Canada’s Ambassador to the UN, elected president of UN’s Economic and Social Council
News release
July 25, 2024 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
Bob Rae, Canada’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, has been elected president of the UN’s Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for a 1-year term.
As 1 of the UN’s 6 main bodies, ECOSOC is responsible for coordinating the work of the UN international development system. It serves as the central forum for engaging with civil society, advancing work on international economic and social issues and formulating policy recommendations.
Ambassador Rae’s new role significantly enhances Canada’s capacity for bilateral engagements with UN leadership, member states and other stakeholders and will enable Canada to champion the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Under Ambassador Rae’s leadership, Canada’s presidency of ECOSOC will focus on ethically harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to drive progress on sustainable development, addressing the challenges and opportunities of global migration and promoting innovative and sustainable financing solutions for international development. These priorities will also integrate issues of gender equality, diversity and inclusion.
During its presidency, Canada will also work to foster more exchanges between international financial institutions and UN member states, enhancing understanding and coherence in development financing.
Canada’s presidency of ECOSOC coincides with its presidency of the G7 next year, providing a unique opportunity for Canada to amplify its global leadership.
Quotes
“I offer my sincere congratulations to Ambassador Rae on his election as president of ECOSOC. Ambassador Rae’s experience and leadership will undoubtedly enhance Canada’s engagement with the UN and reinforce our commitment to multilateralism and collaborative international efforts.”
- Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs
“I congratulate Ambassador Rae on his election. His extensive experience and deep commitment to international development make him the ideal candidate for ECOSOC’s presidency. Canada's long-standing partnership with the UN has been pivotal in shaping global progress, and our continued collaboration remains crucial in advancing shared goals and values.”
- Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development
“I am deeply honoured to be elected president of ECOSOC. I am committed to working over the coming year to strengthen our multilateral system, advance the achievement of the SDGs and leave no one behind. I look forward to doing so with an inclusive approach, together with the UN, its member states and civil society.
- Bob Rae, Canada’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York
Quick facts
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The term of Ambassador Rae has just started. He is succeeding Her Excellency Paula Narváez, who currently serves as Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Chile to the United Nations in New York.
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Ambassador Rae joins Lester Pearson (President of General Assembly 1952-53) and George Davidson (President of ECOSOC 1958-59) as one of 3 Canadians elected as Presidents of UN Charter bodies.
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ECOSOC has 54 member states, elected for 3-year terms, and it meets annually to review progress and make recommendations.
Associated links
Contacts
Olivia Batten
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development
Olivia.Batten@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
media@international.gc.ca
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