Frequently Asked Questions

How many NGOs are there in ECOSOC consultative status with the United Nations (UN)?

Currently there are 2719 NGOs (Non Governmental Organizations) in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the UN. The vast majority of the NGO’s are small and specialized organizations addressing a specific set of UN items. NGO’s are also known as non-profit public; 501c3 organizations; or, voluntary organizations, in different parts of the world. There are around 30 NGO’s headquartered in India that have obtained this prestigious status, as an Indian NGO. Of the 30, M.A. Math is the only one that is doing broad scaled humanitarian work, including the tsunami relief efforts, in a very cost effective and timely way.  

What is consultative status?

Non-governmental, non-profit public or voluntary organizations may be admitted into a mutually beneficial working relationship with the United Nations by attaining consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The rights and privileges enumerated in detail in ECOSOC resolution 1996/31, enable qualifying organizations to make a contribution to the work programs and goals of the United Nations by serving as technical experts, advisers and consultants to governments and the United Nations organization. In concrete terms, this entails NGO’s participation in ECOSOC and its various subsidiary bodies through attendance at these meetings, and also through oral interventions and written statements on agenda items of those bodies. Organizations granted status are also invited to attend international conferences called by the U.N., U.N. General Assembly special sessions, and other intergovernmental bodies.  

What are the procedures for obtaining consultative status with the ECOSOC?

In order to obtain consultative status an organization's application must be reviewed by the Committee on NGOs of the ECOSOC which meets twice a year. The Committee, composed by 19 member countries of the United Nations, recommends to the ECOSOC which organizations should be granted consultative status. The recommendation then goes to the ECOSOC meeting, with the full ECOSOC making the final decision. The final decision was made on July 21, 2005.

What are the requirements for obtaining consultative status?

Non-governmental, non-profit voluntary organizations may be admitted into consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The types of NGOs that can apply for consultative status, the requirements for obtaining status, as well as duties and responsibilities of the NGOs in consultative status are enumerated in detail in ECOSOC Resolution 1996/31. Among other requirements, the organization's activities must be relevant to the work of ECOSOC. The NGO must have a democratic decision making mechanism. The NGO must be in existence (officially registered with the appropriate government authorities as an NGO/non-profit) for at least 2 years in order to apply. The basic resources of the organization must be derived in the main part from contributions of the national affiliates, individual members or other non-governmental components.

Are NGOs in consultative status part of the UN?

No, they are not. They are not representatives or agents of the UN, nor are they authorized to enter into business arrangements on behalf of the UN. Consultative status does not entitle them to special privileges, tax exemptions, diplomatic passports, etc.

What are the M. A. Math plans with the UN?

M.A. Math’s wide range of activities are aligned with the United Nations’ new global directions, called the Millenium Development Goals. Within these goals, tsunami relief efforts are the focal point for collaboration efforts