This morning, Miki Imai and I are heading to the United Nations Conference on the Financial and Economic Crisis and its Impact on Development. This UN Conference will be a valuable opportunity for all countries- developed and developing alike- to have a seat at the table to discuss possible solutions to this systemic crisis. As indicated on the website, the purpose of the Conference is “to identify emergency and long-term responses to mitigate the impact of the crisis, especially on vulnerable populations, and initiate a needed dialogue on the transformation of the international financial architecture, taking into account the needs and concerns of all Member States.” For more information about the Conference, including background materials, official documents and side events, go to: http://www.un.org/ga/econcrisissummit/

During the Conference, we will meet with other civil society organizations and social movements from around the globe that have come to NYC to demonstrate solidarity with the world’s poorest people. Numerous organizations and networks have rallied behind 10 Days of Action: Countdown to Commitments, which “aims to mobilize public opinion and deliver the message to world leaders that civil society is watching and expects just, equitable and sustainable solutions to the financial and economic crisis which are focused on the urgent needs of people and the planet.” To learn more about the 10 Days of Action here.

Keep posted for more updates from the Ccnference!

-Margaret McDonnell, ONE’s NGO Partnerships (US) & Faith Relations Team