The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) was established in 1947 by ECOSOC. It is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations.

The primary objective of UNECE is to promote pan-European economic integration. UNECE includes 56 member States in Europe, North America and Asia. However, any United Nations Member State with an interest may participate in the Commission’s activities. More than 70 international professional organizations and other non-governmental organizations also take part in UNECE activities.

As a multilateral platform, UNECE facilitates greater economic integration and cooperation among member States and promotes sustainable development and economic prosperity through:

• policy dialogue
• negotiation of international legal instruments
• development of regulations and standards
• exchange and application of best practices, as well as economic and technical expertise
• technical cooperation in support of countries with economies in transition

UNECE contributes to strengthening the effectiveness of the United Nations through the regional implementation of the outcomes of UN Conferences and global Summits. It implements the United Nations’ global economic mandates in cooperation with other international actors and key stakeholders, particularly the business community.

UNECE also develops norms, standards and conventions to facilitate international cooperation both within and beyond the region.