From 16 to 18 September, a group of more than 20 experts will meet at Bangkok to assess the regional implementation of the commitments of the World Summit on Social Development (WSSD). Coming from various countries in the region, the experts will discuss the challenges and achievements related to the 1995 Copenhagen Declaration on the WSSD, especially with regards to poverty alleviation, the support of full employment and social integration in the region.

The main objective of the meeting is to advise the secretariat on key issues concerning the implementation of the WSSD commitments at the national level. Experts will review the various dimensions of social development –gender mainstreaming, low fertility/ageing, health policies, disability, and international migration – highlighting the needs of vulnerable and disadvantaged groups.

Recommendations from the meeting will serve as a blueprint for the secretariat’s future activities and work programme.