Nepal has taken over the presidency of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for the first time in its history, marking one of the highest leadership roles the country has held in the UN system in nearly four decades. Lok Bahadur Thapa, Nepal’s Permanent Representative to the UN, assumed the position during a formal ceremony at UN Headquarters in New York. Outgoing president Bob Rae of Canada handed Thapa the ceremonial gavel, symbolizing the transfer of leadership.
In his inaugural remarks, Thapa pledged to strengthen ECOSOC’s role as a platform for delivering “inclusive, coordinated, and results-driven” solutions to global development challenges. He emphasized that “delivering better is not an option—it is an imperative,” highlighting Nepal’s commitment to multilateralism, building trust, and creating a more just, inclusive, and resilient world.
Thapa outlined five priority areas for Nepal’s presidency: transforming agri-food systems; mobilizing financing for development through systemic reforms and strategic partnerships; promoting digital inclusion and youth entrepreneurship; hosting ECOSOC’s 80th commemorative event; and advancing climate resilience, with a special focus on mitigating glacial lake outburst floods and protecting vulnerable communities.
He reaffirmed Nepal’s determination to accelerate progress toward the 2030 Agenda, enhance coordination across the UN system, and strengthen partnerships with member states, international financial institutions, civil society, and other stakeholders. Thapa called on all ECOSOC members to work “harder, smarter, faster—and together” to achieve better outcomes for all.
Alongside Nepal’s presidency, Algeria, Armenia, the Dominican Republic, and Spain were elected as vice presidents for the ECOSOC Bureau for the 2026 session. The Permanent Mission of Nepal to the UN noted that the role will enhance Nepal’s visibility in the global development landscape and deepen its engagement in international cooperation.
Susan Shrestha
View More PostsSusan Shrestha is a Europe-based journalist. He covers a wide range of topics, from local matters to global affairs. Shrestha previously worked as a reporter for Khasokhas in Nepal.
