Participating International Institutions

ITU - International Telecommunication Union

ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies. As the global focal point for governments and the private sector, ITU's role in helping the world communicate spans 3 core sectors: radiocommunication, standardization and development. ITU also organizes TELECOM events and was the lead organizing agency of the World Summit on the Information Society. ITU is based in Geneva, Switzerland, and its membership includes 191 Member States and more than 700 Sector Members and Associates. Website:http://www.itu.int/net/home/index.aspx

ILO - International Labour Organization

Secretariat for the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities at UN DESA

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol are serviced by a joint Secretariat, consisting of staff of both the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) based in New York, and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva. DESA services the Conference of States Parties to be convened in New York. In Geneva, OHCHR services the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. In New York, the Secretariat for the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is housed in DESA’s Division for Social Policy and Development, which is responsible for activities related to poverty eradication and employment, generational issues and integration, inclusive development, non-governmental organizations, and indigenous issues. The objectives of the Secretariat at DESA are: (i) to support the full and effective participation of persons with disabilities in social life and development; (ii) to advance the rights and protect the dignity of persons with disabilities and; (iii) to promote equal access to employment, education, information, goods and services. The mandate of the Secretariat at DESA also includes the review and implementation of the Standard Rules on Equalization of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities adopted in 1994, and the World Programme of Action Concerning Disabled Persons adopted in 1982. In addition, the Secretariat prepares publications and acts as a clearinghouse for information on disability issues; promotes national, regional and international programmes and activities; provides support to governments and civil society; and gives substantial support to technical co-operation projects and activities. Website: http://www.un.org/disabilities

UNESCO - United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

UNITAR - United Nations Institute for Training and Research

The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) was established in 1965 as an autonomous body within the United Nations with the purpose of enhancing the effectiveness of the Organization through appropriate training and research. UNITAR is governed by a Board of Trustees and is headed by an Executive Director. The Institute is supported by voluntary contributions from governments, intergovernmental organizations, foundations, and other non governmental sources. Website: http://www.unitar.org

G3ict is the Global Initiative for Inclusive ICTs