Ninth ICM Retreat Examines the Relationship Between the UN and Regional Organizations, Civil Society, the Private Sector, and NGOs

In an age of globalization, crises seldom remain contained within a single country; they tend to cross borders with frequency, whether through forced migration, the spread of conflict risk, or the rippling out of economic consequences. As a result, the fundamental challenges of the 21st century are all beyond the capacity of any single state to respond in isolation.

At the same time, due to a lack of resources and persistent geopolitical obstacles, among other factors, the multilateral system centered in the United Nations has often proven unable to muster adequate responses, which has contributed to fears of global disorder.

To some it is a moment of high risk that challenges the very resilience of the UN system as a whole; to others it is a moment of great opportunity to build support for much-needed change.

The ICM hosted its ninth retreat on November 20-21, with experts, academics, and ambassadors, to discuss the relationship between the UN and regional organizations, civil society, the private sector, and NGOs.

The first session of the retreat examined the changing landscape of multilateral affairs and the opportunities and challenges it presents. The second session addressed how the UN can best leverage the comparative advantages of regional organizations and other partners in peace, security, and humanitarian affairs. The third and last session focused on how the private sector, regional organizations, NGOs, and civil society can work together to achieve sustainable development and human rights.

Discussions were held under the Chatham House Rule of non-attribution and were moderated by ICM Chair Kevin Rudd, ICM Secretary-General Hardeep Singh Puri, and IPI Director of Research and Publications Adam Lupel. Dr. David Malone, Rector of the United Nations University, delivered the keynote address.

Read the Discussion Paper>>

Read about the Public Consultation>>

Read the ICM Interviews with:
David Malone
Amre Moussa