United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
Chairs: Marina Ermakova (marerm@bergen.org) - Victoria Han (vichan@bergen.org)
Topic Papers:
Topic Paper 1: [PDF], [DOC]
Topic Paper 2: [PDF], [DOC]
Established in 1964, UNCTAD promotes the development-friendly integration of developing countries into the world economy. UNCTAD has progressively evolved into an authoritative knowledge-based institution whose work aims to help shape current policy debates and thinking on development, with a particular focus on ensuring that domestic policies and international action are mutually supportive in bringing about sustainable development. UNCTAD's four main functions include acting as a forum for intergovernmental deliberations, undertaking research, data collection, and policy analysis, and it provides technical assistance tailored to the specific requirements of developing nations with special attention to the needs of the least developed countries and economies in transition. UNCTAD works together with governmental institutions, non-governmental organizations, the private sector (including trade and industry associations) and research institutions worldwide.