SHATIL Awarded Special UN Status

August 13, 2007

Last month, the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) awarded SHATIL Consultative Status. This highly prestigious designation follows the UN Department of Public Information's 2005 recognition of SHATIL as an NGO that advances issues of interest to the UN.

"Receiving international recognition for our work by the UN is a great gift for SHATIL's 25th anniversary," said SHATIL Director Rachel Liel. "It makes us feel part of the progressive voices around the world who believe a better world is possible."

The new status enables SHATIL to provide advice, consultation and technical expertise to the UN secretariat and to member governments. SHATIL is also now authorized to designate official representatives to the United Nations in New York, Geneva and Vienna - so they can participate in UN meetings held in those cities.

The UN first took note of SHATIL upon recommendation of Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its NGO Unit.

Upon receiving notice of the UN designation, SHATIL expressed gratitude to its partners in the field for their ongoing dedication and looks forward to continuing to effect social change by participating in the many international meetings and conferences afforded through this tribute.