The UNDESA Database on Economic and Social Councils (ESCs) and similar institutions contains a per-country Global Directory of institutions and other bodies or arrangements within the government structure that directly or indirectly provide for civil society organizations to engage in policy dialogue. The Database includes only national economic and social councils and other similar institutions that address the processes of macro-economic policy making. Though the primary focus of most ESCs are on economic and labour policies, these issues are often mainstreamed along with social, environmental and other issues relating to poverty reduction. This Global Directory is the initial phase of what the Division plans to expand into a wider body of research that will showcase strategies and best practices that have been instrumental in fostering broad civic participation in public policies. Each Global Directory entry contains contact details and a general description of the mandate, structure, and work of the Council.(Original source: http://www.unpan.org/countryprofiles_Economic&SocialCouncils.asp)
