Concluding First Week of 2016 Session, Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations Reviews 404 New Quadrennial Reports, Defers Action on 52 Entities

Concluding the first week of its regular session for 2016, the Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations today deferred action on 52 applications for special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council and reviewed 404 new quadrennial reports, taking note of 362 of them while deferring action on 42 others.

The 19-member Committee considers applications for consultative status and requests for reclassification submitted by non-governmental organizations.  Once an application has been reviewed and approved by the Committee it is considered recommended for consultative status.  Organizations which are granted general and special status can attend meetings of the Council and issue statements, while those with general status can also speak during meetings and propose agenda items.  Organizations with roster status can only attend meetings.

Following discussions during the week, the Committee decided, by a recorded vote of 15 in favour (Azerbaijan, Burundi, China, Cuba, Guinea, India, Iran, Mauritania, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Russian Federation, South Africa, Sudan, Turkey, Venezuela) to 3 against (Greece, Israel, United States), with 1 abstention (Uruguay) to close the application of the non-governmental organization Khmers Kampuchea-From Foundation.  (See Press Releases ECOSOC/6729 and ECOSOC/6730.)

The Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations will meet again at 10 a.m. on Monday, 1 February, to continue its session.

Special Consultative Status

The Committee postponed consideration of the following 52 organizations:

Asia Center for Human Rights (ACHR) (Republic of Korea) — as the representative of China asked for further information about the organization’s activities in the past two years.  South Africa’s representative asked how the organization intended to contribute to the work of the Economic and Social Council.  She also asked for clarification on activities undertaken in Africa.  Cuba’s delegate requested the organization provide the Committee with their updated financial report.

Association for Human Rights and Solidarity with Oppressed People (MAZLUMDER) (Turkey) — as the representative of China asked for further information about the activities undertaken by the organization.

Association Internationale de la Libre Pensée (France) — as the representative of China asked for clarification on the organization’s position on Tibet.

Assyrian Aid Society of America Inc. (United States) — as the representative of Turkey asked for clarification on the Society’s aims and purposes, as well as activities undertaken in the recent years.

Center for Constitutional Rights Inc (United States) — as the representative of Iran asked for further information about the organization’s upcoming activities and projects.  India’s representative noted that the organization had experienced a budget deficit in the past years.  He requested the organization provide the Committee with its updated financial report.

Center for Media & Peace Initiative Inc. (United States) — as the representative of South Africa thanked the organization for its excellent work carried out in Africa, she then asked for its future plans and activities.

Centre Zagros pour les Droits de l'Homme (Switzerland) — as the representative of Iran asked for further information about the organization’s future activities.  She also asked whether the organization had any office in the Middle East.

Child Soldiers International (United Kingdom) — as the representative of China noted that “Taiwan” was listed as a country on the organization’s website, and asked for correction.

Christian Solidarity Worldwide (United Kingdom) — as the representative of Sudan asked whether the organization had any connection with Christian Solidarity International.  The United Kingdom’s delegate noted that the organization worked actively to promote the freedom of religion.  To that end, the Government strongly supported the organization’s application and encouraged the Committee to grant it consultative status.  The representative of the United States noted that the organization had answered all the questions in the past.  Iran’s delegate asked for further information about activities undertaken in her country.

Committee to Protect Journalists, Inc. (United States) — as the representative of Sudan asked about the organization’s relationship with the Governments.

Congrès National des Arméniens Occidentaux (CNAO) (France) — as the representative of Turkey said the organization had provided a map on its website, depicting her country’s territories as part of another State.  It its reply of 28 May, the organization had referred to a website called “keghart.com”.  She asked whether the organization had any contacts, affiliation or cooperation with that website or its administrators.  Armenia’s representative noted that some Committee members continued to ask biased questions and postponed granting consultative status despite the organization’s transparent answers.  Azerbaijan’s delegate said that all members had the right to pose questions if there was lack of clarity.  Turkey’s representative, taking the floor a second time, said her country actively supported the work of non-governmental organizations and the Committee had previously given consultative status to other Armenian organizations.  It was not unusual to pose questions to organizations, she stressed.  Responding, Armenia’s delegate said there was a difference between non-governmental organizations and diaspora organizations, adding that he had no intention to discuss bilateral matters.

Coordination des Associations et des Particuliers pour la Liberté de Conscience (France) — as the representative of China asked for further information about the organization’s activities in the past years.

Dansk Flygtningehjælp (Denmark) — as the representative of Cuba asked whether the organization had any ongoing projects in Latin America.  The Russian Federation’s representative asked for clarification on the sources of income.

Droits de l'Homme sans Frontières — Human Rights Without Frontiers (Belgium) — as the representative of China asked how the organization intended to contribute to the work of the Council.

Earth Charter Associates Ltd. (United States) — as the representative of China noted that “Taiwan” was listed as a country on the organization’s website, and asked for correction.

ECCO2 Corp (United States) — as the representative of South Africa requested the organization to provide the Committee with the latest financial report.  The representative of the United States asked for clarification on the organization’s partnership with the Council.

Electronic Frontier Foundation, Inc. — as the representative of China asked for further information on the implementation and outcome of previous projects.  South Africa’s delegate asked for clarification on the organization’s aims and purposes.

Ensemble contre la Peine de Mort (France) — as the representative of China asked for further information about its upcoming conference.

Eurasia Foundation (The) (United States) — as the representative of the Russian Federation asked for clarification on the organization’s sources of income.  “Is the organization acting autonomously?”, he also asked.

Federal Lezghin National and Cultural Autonomy (Russian Federation) — as the representative of Azerbaijan asked for further information on the organization’s mission to his country.

Geneva Institute for Human Rights (GIHR) (Switzerland) — as the representative of Israel asked for clarification on the organization’s decision-making structure.

Global Institute for Water, Environment and Health (Switzerland) — as the representative of Israel asked how the organization carried out its activities and projects.

Hokok Coalición Internacional Contra la Impunidad — as the representative of Israel noted that the organization did not have any activities in the past two years.  Asking for clarification on the issue, he requested the organization provide their future plans.

Human Aid UK (United Kingdom) — as the representative of Israel asked for further information about the outcome of the investigation.  South Africa’s asked for clarification on the organization’s activities in the area of poverty alleviation.

International Association of Independent Journalists Inc. — as the representative of China requested the organization to provide the Committee with its updated financial report.

International Center for Work and Family (Spain) — as Cuba’s representative said the organization had a notarized document in which two people had been involved with it on behalf of the University of Navarro.  As such, he asked for details on the relation with that university.

International Dalit Solidarity Network (Denmark) — as China’s representative asked how the group had been registered in countries in which it operated.  India’s representative asked for further details on operating costs, programming and partners.  Iran’s representative asked for details on its future activities.

Interregional Non-governmental Organization “Committee against Torture” (Russian Federation) — as the representative of the Russian Federation asked for further details on activities in the area of the northern Caucasus.

Iran Human Rights Documentation Center (United States) — as China’s representative asked why the group’s application had listed no members.  He also asked for the dates the group’s reports had been published.  Iran’s representative said the group seemed to be a Government-affiliated body that received 86 per cent of its budget from the United States Department of State.  As such, she requested that the organization provided details on activities with regard to Iranian citizens and a list of partner non-governmental organizations.  Cuba’s representative asked for updated information on the group’s budget.  India’s representative requested information on funding sources.

Islamic Help (United Kingdom) — as the representative of Israel asked for details on how the group would handle its large deficit.

Jeunesse Canada Monde — Canada World Youth (Canada) — as the representative of Cuba said the Committee was still awaiting a response from the group.

Korea Human Rights Foundation (Republic of Korea) — as China’s representative asked for details on countries where activities were taking place.  He also asked for clarification as no members were listed alongside a declaration that funding derived from the membership.  South Africa’s representative asked for details on where projects were operating.  Iran’s representative asked for an updated financial statement and for clarification on how it maintained the principles of non-selectivity as it reported on human rights in other countries.

Mittetulundusühing Fenno-Ugria Asutus (Estonia) — as the representative of the Russian Federation asked for clarification on its finances whereby about $98,000 had gone towards administration.

New Jersey Minority Educational Development NJ-MED (United States) — as Cuba’s representative said he recognized the important work done by the group.  As such, he wondered if the group was planning to extend activities to Latin America and, if so, to which countries.

Parents and Friends of Ex-Gays and Gays, Inc. (P-FOX) (United States) — as Israel’s representative asked the group for a list of current activities in the United States and worldwide.  The organization had already provided a list that included the Russian Federation and Pakistan, but he requested a list of all countries in which it operated.

Profesionales por la Ética (Spain) — as Cuba’s representative asked for updated financial information.

Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (Germany) — as the representative of the Russian Federation said administrative expenditures amount to 20 per cent of the budget in addition salaries, which totalled a very high portion of the budget.  As such, he asked for the reason behind those figures.

Survivor’s Network of those Abused by Priests (United States) — as Iran’s representative asked for updated financial statement and budget.  She asked if the group worked with national Governments and requested a list of countries in which it operated.  The representative of the Russian Federation asked if abuse by priests was a serious problem in the United States and worldwide.

The Death Penalty Project Limited (United Kingdom) — as Cuba’s representative asked the group for details about planned events or projects for 2016.

The Jewish Renaissance Foundation (United States) — as Cuba’s representative asked for updated details on the group’s finances.  Sudan’s representative asked for further details on the group’s work internationally and in the Middle East and Africa.

The Lawfare Project, Inc. (United States) — as China’s representative asked for further details on the group’s income and from which foundations funding came from.  Iran’s representative asked for information on whether the group was a law firm or a non-governmental organization.  She also asked if the organization’s participation against Iran’s nuclear programme.

United Sikhs (United States) — as China’s representative asked for the group to clarify its position on Tibet, China.  India’s representative asked for details on funding sources and the group’s budget, including salaries and expenditures with regard to administration.

Virtual Activism Incorporated (United States) — as Nicaragua’s representative asked if they had worked outside the United States.  South Africa’s representative asked for further details on activities and impact on African countries where Internet penetration was a challenge.

Women Living under Muslim Laws — International Solidarity Network (WLUML) — as Iran’s representative asked for updated financial information.  She also asked for clarification as to whether the group was just working in Muslim countries or with Muslim populations in different countries.  India’s representative asked how the group maintained independence from Government funding.

Youth Coalition for Sexual and Reproductive Rights (YCSRR) (Canada) — as Nicaragua’s representative asked for a list of projects for 2016 and a list of countries.  She also asked if the group intended to extend its projects to other countries.  Sudan’s representative asked for a list of workshops to be held in Africa.  Canada’s representative said her observer delegation supported the group and requested that the Committee grant it special consultative status.  Not all countries might agree to the work of the group, but the Committee should give the organization an opportunity to respond to questions, she said, expressing hope that the Committee would agree by consensus to grant the group status.  South Africa’s representative asked if the statement by Canada’s representative could be distributed to Committee members.

Youth of European Nationalities (Germany) — as the representative of the Russian Federation said a seminar on minorities in the media had taken place in Ukraine.  As such, he asked for further details on that conference and if the focus of the seminar was on national minorities in Ukraine.

Christian Solidarity International (CSI) (Switzerland) — as Sudan’s representative asked about the institutional relationship between the group and Christian Solidarity Worldwide.  He also asked about references on the group’s website to slavery in Sudan and the existence of 30,000 slaves and asked the organization to clarify the source of that information.

International Non-Olympic Committee (India) — as India’s representative asked for details on the group’s work and why it had considered itself to be a research organizations.  He also asked for an explanation of decision-making processes, how it administered its operations and the role of its “Board of Patrons”.

Martial Arts Academy (France) — as South Africa’s representative asked for further information on international projects and the group’s budget.  She also asked whether or not the group was partnering with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) or the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN-Women).

World Council for Curriculum and Instruction (United States) — as the representative of China noted that “Taiwan” was listed as a country on the organization’s website.

Widows for Peace through Democracy (United Kingdom) — as the representative of Turkey asked for further information about the document called "Draft Widows Charter".  She then asked whether it had been finalized or published.

Review of Quadrennial Reports

The Committee took note of the new quadrennial reports containing submissions by the following non-governmental organizations:

E/C.2/2016/2 — 13 non-governmental organizations:  "Children of the World" — Regional Public Charitable Fund of Assistance to Cultural and Sports Development of Children and Young People, The 2011–2014; 5^th Pillar 2011–2014; Abibimman Foundation 2011–2014; Academy for Future Science 2011–2014; Action Sensibilisation sur les Nouvelles Technologies de L'Information et de la Communication 2011–2014; Africa Development Interchange Network 2011–2014; African Action on AIDS 2011–2014; African Association of Education for Development 2011–2014; African Youth for Transparency (AYFT) 2011–2014; Africans Unite Against Child Abuse (AFRUCA) 2011–2014; Afromedianet 2011–2014; Agewell Foundation 2011–2014; Aide Internationale pour L'enfance 2011–2014.

Regarding the quadrennial report of AARP 2011–2014, the representative of China asked for further information about the ongoing project.  Turning to the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences 2011-2014, he noted that the Academy had organized a side event at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development.  He requested the organization to provide further information about that event.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.1 — 14 non-governmental organizations:  AIDS Foundation East-West 2011–2014; Al-Hakim Foundation 2011-2014; ALDET Centre-Saint Lucia, The 2011-2014; All China Women's Federation 2011-2014; All India Women's Education Fund Association 2011-2014; All Pakistan Women's Association 2011-2014; All-Russian Social Fund, "The Russian Children Foundation" 2011-2014; Alliance Forum Foundation 2011-2014; American Indian Law Alliance 2011-2014; Antiviolence Center 2011-2014; AquaFed-International Federation of Private Water Operators 2011-2014; Armenian Constitutional Right-Protective Centre 2011-2014; Asayesefid (White Cane) 2011-2014; Asia Pacific Women´s Watch (APWW) 2011-2014.

Regarding the quadrennial report of Club of Madrid 2011–2014, the representative of China asked for further information about the organization’s relationship with UN-Women and the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.2 — 14 non-governmental organizations:  Asian Centre for Organization Research and Development 2011-2014; Asociación Civil ONGD Educación, Ambiente y Territorio 2011-2014; Asociacion Cubana de las Naciones Unidas (Cuban United Nations Association) 2011-2014; Asociación de Federaciones y Asociaciones de Empresarias del Mediterráneo 2011-2014; Asociación Dominicana de las Naciones Unidas ANU-RD 2011-2014; Asociación Panameña de Corredores y Promotores de Bienes Raices 2011-2014; Association Burkinabé pour la Survie de l'Enfance 2011-2014; Association de Défense des Droits de l'Homme 2011-2014; Association de la jeunesse Congolaise pour le developpement 2011-2014; Association des Consommateurs de Télécommunication de Cote d´ivoire 2011-2014; Association for Emissions Control by Catalyst-AECC 2011-2014; Association for Reproductive and Family Health (ARFH) 2011-2014; Association for Solidarity with freedom-deprived juveniles 2011-2014; Association Mauritanienne pour la promotion du droit 2011-2014.

Regarding the quadrennial report of the Associated Country Women of the World 2011–2014, the representative of China asked for further information about its triennial conference and side events.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.3 — 15 non-governmental organizations:  Association Mondiale de Psychanalyse du Champ Freudien AMP 2011-2014; Association Nationale Al Hidn-A.N.H. 2011-2014; Association of United Families International 2011-2014; Association of War-Affected Women 2011-2014; Association of World Reindeer Herders 2011-2014; Association pour le développement économique, social, environnemental du nord 2011-2014; Associazione IRENE-Initiatives, Researches, Experiences for a New Europe 2011-2014; Assyrian Aid Society-Iraq 2011-2014; Athletes United for Peace 2011-2014; Aube Nouvelle pour la Femme et le Développement 2011-2014; Bahrain Women Society 2011-2014; Bangladesh Nari Progati Sangha 2011-2014; Bangwe et Dialogue 2011-2014; Behnam Daheshpour Charity Organization 2011-2014; Beijing Children's Legal Aid and Research Center 2011-2014.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.4 — 12 non-governmental organizations:  Beijing Zhicheng Migrant Workers' Legal Aid and Research Center 2011-2014; Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti Jaipur 2011-2014; Cameroun Terre Nouvelle 2011-2014; Campaign Life Coalition 2011-2014; Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (CCSA) 2011-2014; Care International 2011-2014; Caribbean Medical Association (Asociacion Medica del Caribe) 2011-2014; Center for Alcohol and Drug Research and Education 2011-2014; Center for Global Community and World Law 2011-2014; Center for Interethnic Cooperation, The 2011-2014; Center for International Earth Science Information Network 2011-2014; and Centre d'Accueil et de Volontariat pour Orphelins, Abandonnés et Handicapés du Cameroun (CAVOAH-CAM) 2011-2014.

Regarding the non-governmental organizations Buddha's Light International Association 2011–2014; Caritas Internationalis (International Confederation of Catholic Charities) 2011–2014; and Centre d'accompagnement des autochtones pygmees et minoritaires vulnerables 2011-2014, China’s representative asked for clarification of their reference to “Taiwan”.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.5 — 15 non-governmental organizations:  Centre for International Sustainable Development Law 2011-2014; Centro de Estudios Sobre la Juventud 2011-2014; Cercle d'initiative commune pour la recherche, l'environnement et la qualité 2011-2014; Child Development Foundation 2011-2014; Child Helpline International 2011-2014; Childlink Foundation 2011-2014; Children's Human Rights Centre of Albania 2011-2014; China Association for Preservation and Development of Tibetian Culture (CAPDTC) 2011-2014; China Energy Fund Committee 2011-2014; China Great Wall Society 2011-2014; China Green Foundation 2011-2014; Chinese Association for International Understanding 2011-2014; CIDSE 2011-2014; CITYNET - Regional Network of Local Authorities for the Management of Human Settlements 2011-2014; and CLIPSAS 2011-2014.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.6 — 10 non-governmental organizations:  Colombian Commission of Jurists 2011-2014; Comision Juridica para el Autodesarrollo de los Pueblos Originarios Andinos-Capaj 2011-2014; Comité Español de Representantes de Personas con Discapacidad 2011-2014; Comite Francais pour l'Afrique du Sud 2011-2014; Commission africaine des promoteurs de la santé et des droits de l'homme 2011-2014; Company of the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul 2011-2014; Concern for Environmental Development And Research 2011-2014; Concern Worldwide US, Inc. 2011-2014; Confederacion Latinoamericana de Cooperativas de Ahorro y Credito (COLAC-V) 2011-2014; and Coordinating Board of Jewish Organizations 2011-2014.

Regarding organizations Community of Sant'Egidio 2011-2014, Confederazione Generale Italiana del Lavoro (General Italian Confederation of Labour) 2011-2014 and Congregations of St. Joseph 2011–2014, China’s representative asked for clarification of the issue of Tibet, China.  Regarding organizations Conscience and Peace Tax International (CPTI) 2011–2014 and Coordination Immigrés du Sud du Monde/C.I.S.M.-Vénétie 2011-2014, he asked for clarification on the issue of “Taiwan”.

Turning to the decision to close the application of the non-governmental organization Khmers Kampuchea-From Foundation, the Committee then opened the floor to explanation of vote before the vote.

The United States’ representative said a United Nations Member State had made a request to close the application of the organization.  In 2012, the Council recommended granting consultative status to that group.  The Committee’s overturning of that decision had denied the organization an opportunity to answer questions.  The work of the group did not undermine a sovereign State, but focused on a group of people and their rights.  As such, he said his delegation would vote against the action to close the application.

The Committee then decided, by a recorded vote of 15 in favour to 3 against (Greece, Israel, United States), with 1 abstention (Uruguay) to close the application of the non-governmental organization Khmers Kampuchea-From Foundation.

[Azerbaijan, Burundi, China, Cuba, Greece, Guinea, India, Israel, Iran, Mauritania, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Russian Federation, South Africa, Sudan, Turkey, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela]

In explanation of vote after the vote, Greece’s delegate said his delegation was against closing the application before taking all necessary steps.  If an organization did not fulfil requirements, the Committee should not give consultative status.  However, he said, it was unfortunate that the members had not allowed the Committee to discuss all concerning issues.

The representative of Sudan valued the contribution of non-governmental organizations.  He said it was the Committee members’ responsibility to uphold the United Nations Charter.

Cuba’s representative noted that his delegation asked for a vote because there was no consensus in the Committee.

Nicaragua’s delegate respected the Charter, and voted yes for the withdrawal.

The representative of Viet Nam appreciated the role played by the non-governmental organizations.  Supporting the decision, he noted that the Committee distinguished good and bad organizations.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.7 — 13 non-governmental organizations:  Corrections India 2011-2014; Council for American Students in International Negotiations 2011-2014; Council for International Development 2011-2014; David M. Kennedy Center for International Studies 2011-2014; Daytop Village Foundation, Inc. 2011-2014; Deutsche Stiftung Weltbevoelkerung - German Foundation for World Population 2011-2014; Dianova International 2011-2014; Drammeh Institute, Inc 2011-2014; Drug Prevention Network of Canada 2011-2014; Du Pain Pour Chaque Enfant 2011-2014; Earthjustice 2011-2014; Ensemble luttons contre le Sida 2011-2014; and Environmental Management for Livelihood Improvement-Bwaise Facility 2011-2014.

Regarding Credo-Action 2011–2014 and Economists for Peace and Security 2011–2014, China’s representative asked for clarification on the groups’ reference to “Taiwan”.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.8 — 13 non-governmental organizations:  Center for Economic and Social Rights, The 2011-2014; China International Public Relations Association (CIPRA) 2011-2014; Environmental Women's Assembly 2011-2014; Equidad de Genero: Ciudadania ,Trabajo y Familia, A.C. 2011-2014; Espace Afrique International 2011-2014; Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, The (ERLC), 2011-2014; Euromontana (European Association for Mountain Areas) 2011-2014; European Youth Forum 2011-2014; Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International e.V. 2011-2014; Federacion Internacional de Asociaciones de Ayuda Social Ecologica y Cultural FIADASEC/International Federation of Associations for Social, Ecological and Cultural Help 2011-2014; Federation for Women and Family Planning 2011-2014; Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, Inc. 2011-2014; and Finland National Committee for UN-Women 2011-2014.

Regarding the organizations European Centre for Law and Justice, The Centre Europeen pour le droit, les Justice et les droits de l'homme 2011-2014 and Federación Internacional de Fe y Alegría 2011-2014, China’s representative asked for clarification on the issue of Tibet.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.9 — 15 non-governmental organizations: Fondation Congo Assistance 2011-2014; Fondazione Marista per la Solidarietà Internazionale ONLUS 2011-2014; Forum Azzahrae pour la Femme Marocaine 2011-2014; Foundation for the development of knowledge Suma Veritas 2011-2014; Foundation Projekta for Women and Development Services/Stichting Projekta 2011-2014; Framework Convention Alliance for Tobacco Control 2011-2014; The Fund of Aid for Youth 2011-2014; Fundación Antonio Núñez Jiménez de la Naturaleza y el Hombre 2011-2014; Fundación Atenea Grupo GID 2011-2014; Fundacion Diagrama-Intervacion Psicosocial 2011-2014; Gic Technologies Nouvelles au Cameroun 2011-2014; Girl Scouts of the United States of America 2011-2014; Global Action Against Poverty 2011-2014; Global Exchange 2011-2014; and Global Justice Center 2011-2014.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.10 — 14 non-governmental organizations: Global Volunteers 2011-2014; Globe International 2011-2014; Globetree 2011-2014; Good People International (GPI) 2011-2014; Grand Triangle, Inc. 2011-2014; Groupe des ONG pour la Convention relative aux droits de l'enfant 2011-2014; Grupo de Informacion en Reproduccion Elegida, A.C. (GIRE) 2011-2014; Gulf Research Center Foundation 2011-2014; Habitat for Humanity Int'l 2011-2014; Handicap International 2011-2014; Hariri Foundation for Sustainable Human Development 2011-2014; Helios Life Association 2011-2014; Heritage Foundation, The 2011-2014; and High Atlas Foundation 2011-2014.

Regarding organization HelpAge International 2011-2014, Cuba’s representative asked for details on events it participated in 2013 and their contribution the group made to the United Nations Conference on the Arms Trade Treaty.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.11 — 14 non-governmental organizations:  Himalayan Research and Cultural Foundation 2011-2014; The Hong Kong Council of Social Service 2011-2014; Howard Center for Family, Religion and Society 2011-2014; Human Appeal International 2011-2014; Human Relief Foundation 2011-2014; Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM) 2011-2014; Human Rights Council of Australia, Inc. 2011-2014; Human Rights Defence Centre 2011-2014; Human Rights Law Centre 2011-2014; Human Rights League of the Horn of Africa 2011-2014; Human Rights National Circle (HRNC)/Cercle National des Droits de l´Homme (CNDH) 2011-2014; HYDROAID Water for Development Institute 2011-2014; and Ilngwesi Afya Program 2011-2014.

Regarding the organization Human Rights First 2011-2014, China’s representative asked for details on the groups work with regard to the Millennium Development Goals mentioned in the application.  He also asked for the names of countries that had put forward recommendations or feedback on the group.  With regard to the same organization, Cuba’s representative asked that applicants answered questions posed by the Committee.

Regarding the organization Indian Council of Education 2011-2014, India’s representative asked for details on the group’s participation with meetings at the United Nations.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.12 — 15 organizations:  Institute for International Urban Development 2011-2014; Institute for Women's Studies and Research 2011-2014; Institute of Noahide Code 2011-2014; Instituto Para la Participación y el Desarrollo-INPADE-Asociación Civil 2011-2014; Inter-Press Service International Association (IPS) 2011-2014; International Action Network on Small Arms 2011-2014; International Administrative Science Association 2011-2014; International Alert 2011-2014; International Alliance of Women 2011-2014; International Art & Technology Cooperation Organization 2011-2014; International Association Against Torture 2011-2014; International Association for the Defence of Religious Liberty-Association Internationale Pour La Defense de la Liberte 2011-2014; International Association for Water Law 2011-2014; International Association of Charities 2011-2014; and International Association of Jewish Lawyers and Jurists 2011-2014.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.13-14 non-governmental organizations: International Association of Lawyers Against Nuclear Arms 2011-2014; International Association of Peace Messenger Cities 2011-2014; International Association of Schools of Social Work 2011-2014; International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) 2011-2014; International Campaign to Ban Landmines 2011-2014; International Center for Alcohol Policies 2011-2014; International Center for Not-for-Profit Law (INCPL) 2011-2014; International Christian Organisation of the Media 2011-2014; International Committee for the Indigenous Peoples of the Americas 2011-2014; International Confederation of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul 2011-2014; The International Corrections and Prisons Association for the Advancement of Professional Corrections 2011-2014; International Council for Adult Education 2011-2014; International Council of Women/Conseil International des Femmes 2011-2014; International Ecological Safety Cooperative Organization 2011-2014.

Regarding the quadrennial report of the International Bar Association 2011-2014, the representative of China noted that the organization listed “Taiwan” as a country.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.14 — 14 non-governmental organizations:  International Federation for Family Development 2011-2014; International Federation of ACAT (Action by Christians for the Abolition of Torture) 2011-2014; International Federation of Associations of the Elderly 2011-2014; International Federation of Business and Professional Women 2011-2014; International Federation of Medical Students' Associations 2011-2014; International Federation of Psoriasis Associations 2011-2014; International Federation of Social Workers 2011-2014; International Federation of University Women 2011-2014; International Federation on Ageing 2011-2014; International Human Rights Observer (IHRO) Pakistan 2011-2014; International Indian Treaty Council 2011-2014; International Informatization Academy 2011-2014; International Institute for Child Protection 2011-2014; International Institute for the Rights of the Child 2011-2014.

Regarding the quadrennial report of the International Fellowship of Reconciliation 2011-2014, the representative of China noted that the organization focused on climate change and sustainable development goals.  He asked what kind of activities were undertaken by the organization.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.15 — 15 non-governmental organizations:  International Islamic Committee for Woman and Child 2011-2014; International Islamic Relief Organization 2011-2014; International Jurists Organisation 2011-2014; International Juvenile Justice Observatory 2011-2014; International Kolping Society 2011-2014; International Law Association 2011-2014; International Lesbian and Gay Association 2011-2014; International Motor Vehicle Inspection Committee 2011-2014; International Movement ATD Fourth World 2011-2014; International Multiracial Shared Cultural Organization 2011-2014; International Muslim Women's Union 2011-2014; International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse 2011-2014; International Network of Basin Organizations/Reseau International des Organismes de Basin 2011-2014; International Network of Liberal Women 2011-2014; International Ocean Institute 2011-2014.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.16 — 14 non-governmental organizations:  International Ontopsychology Association 2011-2014; International Organization for Standardization 2011-2014; International Planned Parenthood Federation, Europe Region 2011-2014; International Police Executive Symposium 2011-2014; International Real Estate Federation 2011-2014; International Religious Liberty Association 2011-2014; International Rescue Committee, Inc. 2011-2014; International Road Safety 2011-2014; International Samaritan 2011-2014; International Sociological Association 2011-2014; International Statistical Institute 2011-2014; International Touring Alliance 2011-2014; International Volunteerism Organization for Women, Education and Development-VIDES 2011-2014; International Women's Health Coalition 2011-2014.

Regarding the quadrennial report of the International Service for Human Rights 2011-2014, the representative of China requested the organization to clarify its position on “Tibet” and “Xinjiang”.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.17 — 14 organizations:  IOGT International 2011-2014; Isfahan Human Rights and Development Organization 2011-2014; Japan Federation of Bar Associations 2011-2014; Japan National Committee for UN-Women 2011-2014; Join Together Society Korea 2011-2014; Jubilee Campaign 2011-2014; Junior Chamber International 2011-2014; Kikandwa Rural Communities Development Organization (KIRUCODO) 2011-2014; Lama Gangchen World Peace Foundation (LGWPF) 2011-2014; Latter-Day Saint Charities 2011-2014; Legiao da Boa Vontade-Legion of Good Will 2011-2014; Liberal International (World Liberal Union) 2011-2014; Life Ethics Educational Association 2011-2014; and Life for Relief and Development 2011-2014.

Regarding the organization Korean Institute for Women and Politics 2011-2014, China’s representative asked for details on budget activities and on its involvement in relevant conferences.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.18 — 15 organizations:  Ligue internationale contre le racisme et l'antisémitisme 2011-2014; Livelihood NGO 2011-2014;  L´auravetli´an Information and Education Network of Indigenous People (LIENIP) 2011-2014; Madre, Inc. 2011-2014;  Mayors for Peace 2011-2014; Mercy-USA for Aid and Development, Inc 2011-2014; Millennium Institute 2011-2014; Minhaj-ul-Quran International 2011-2014; Mision Mujer AC 2011-2014; Movement for a Better World 2011-2014; Muhammadiyah Association 2011-2014; National Children´s and Youth Law Centre 2011-2014; National Council of Child Rights Advocates, Nigeria: South West Zone 2011-2014; and National Council of Negro Women 2011-2014.

Regarding the organization National Council of German Women's Organizations 2011-2014, China’s representative asked for details on activities carried out to commemorate the Beijing Women’s Conference and to clarify their position on “Taiwan”.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.19 — 15 organizations: National Council of Women of the United States Inc. 2011-2014; National Native Title Council 2011-2014; National Union of the Association of Protection of Motherhood, Childhood and Families 2011-2014; National Women's Council of Catalonia-Consell Nacional de Dones de Catalunya 2011-2014; New Human Rights 2011-2014; New Japan Women's Association 2011-2014; New York County Lawyers' Association 2011-2014; Niger Delta Women’s Movement for Peace and Development 2011-2014; Nord-Sud XXI-North-South XXI 2011-2014; Objectif Sciences International 2011-2014; OceanCare 2011-2014; OLPC Foundation 2011-2014; and Order of St. John, The 2011-2014.

Regarding organization Nonviolent Peaceforce 2011-2014, China’s representative asked for locations of events and the means used to “stop violence”.

Regarding organization Nonviolent Radical Party, Transnational and Transparty 2011-2014, China’s representative asked about their role in the General Assembly’s Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural).

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.20 — 13 non-governmental organizations:  Organisation Nationale des Donneurs de Sang Bénévole 2011-2014; Organização das Famílias da Ásia e do Pacífico 2011-2014; Organización de Entidades Mutuales de las Américas, ODEMA, Asociación Civil 2011-2014; Organization of Islamic Capitals and Cities 2011-2014; Oxfam Novib 2011-2014; Pacific Rim Institute for Development & Education 2011-2014; Pag-Aalay Ng Puso Foundation (Offering of the Heart Foundation) 2011-2014; Pan Pacific and South East Asia Women's Association of Thailand 2011-2014; PanAmerican-PanAfrican Association, Inc. 2011-2014; Paz y Cooperacion 2011-2014; Peace Action 2011-2014; Permanent Assembly for Human Rights 2011-2014; Plan International, Inc. 2011-2014.

Regarding the quadrennial report of the Pax Christi International, International Catholic Peace Movement 2011-2014, the representative of China asked for further information about activities undertaken by the organization.  Turning to Planned Parenthood Federation of America, he asked how the organization used mobile technology to carry out its activities.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.21 — 14 non-governmental organizations:  Poverty Elimination and Community Education Foundation 2011-2014; Prasad Project, Inc., The 2011-2014; Program for Appropriate Technology in Health (PATH) 2011-2014; Public International Law and Policy Group 2011-2014; Pugwash Conference on Science and World Affairs 2011-2014; Ramola Bhar Charitable Trust 2011-2014; Real Medicine Foundation 2011-2014; Red Mujeres, Desarrollo, Justicia Y Paz AC 2011-2014; Red Venezolana de Organizaciones para el Desarrollo Social 2011-2014; Redress Trust 2011-2014; RESO-Femmes 2011-2014; Restoration World Outreach Ministries 2011-2014; Romanian Independent Society of Human Rights 2011-2014; Rural Community Development Program 2011-2014.

Regarding the quadrennial report of Priests for Life 2011-2014, the representative of China asked for further information about the organization’s partnership with Governments.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.22 — 15 non-governmental organizations:  Rural Development Centre 2011-2014; Rural Development Leadership Network 2011-2014; Sacro Militare Ordine Costantiniano di San Giorgio 2011-2014; Safari Club International Foundation 2011-2014; Safe Water Network 2011-2014; Salesian Missions, Inc. 2011-2014; Salvation Army, The 2011-2014; Save a Child's Heart in Memory of Dr. Ami Cohen 2011-2014; Serve Train Educate People's Society 2011-2014; Service and Research Institute on Family and Children 2011-2014; Several Sources Foundation 2011-2014; Shanta Memorial Rehabilitation Centre 2011-2014; Shimin Gaikou Centre (Citizens' Diplomatic Centre for the Rights of Indigenous Peoples) 2011-2014; Shohratgarh Environmental Society 2011-2014; Socialist International 2011-2014.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.23 — 13 non-governmental organizations:  Socialist International Women 2011-2014; Society for Development and Community Empowerment 2011-2014; Society for Human advancement and Disadvantaged Empowerment (SHADE) 2011-2014; Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology 2011-2014; Society for the Promotion of Youth and Masses 2011-2014; Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues 2011-2014; Society for Upliftment of Masses, The 2011-2014; Sociologists for Women in Society 2011-2014; Soroptimist International of Europe 2011-2014; SOS Éducation 2011-2014; South Sudanese Women Christian Mission for Peace 2011-2014; Southern Diaspora Research and Development Center, Inc. The 2011-2014; Sucardif Association 2011-2014.

Regarding the quadrennial report of Society for the Protection of Unborn Children 2011-2014 and SOS Kinderdorf International, the representative of China asked for clarification on their position on “Tibet”.  Further, he noted that Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology 2011-2014 listed “Taiwan” as a country on its website.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.24 — 12 non-governmental organizations:  Sudanese Women General Union 2011-2014; Surfrider Foundation Europe 2011-2014; Swedish Association for Sexuality Education 2011-2014; Swedish Federation of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Rights-RFSL 2011-2014; Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression 2011-2014; Project, The 2011-2014; Terre Des Hommes Federation Internationale 2011-2014; The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors 2011-2014; Third World Institute-Instituto del Tercer Mundo 2011-2014; Touro Law Center, The Institute on Human Rights and The Holocaust 2011-2014; Tribal Link Foundation, Inc. 2011-2014; UDISHA 2011-2014; Udyama 2011-2014; Umid Support to social development public union.

Regarding the quadrennial report of The Tandem Project 2011-2014 and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors 2011-2014, the representative of China noted that such organizations had provided wrong information about Taiwan, Hong Kong and Tibet.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.25 — 15 organizations:  Abantu for Development (People for Development) 2011-2014; Action des Chrétiens activistes des droits de l'homme à Shabunda 2011-2014; Action Health Incorporated 2011-2014; The American Conservative Union, 2011-2014; American Youth Understanding Diabetes Abroad, Inc/AYUDA, Inc.) 2011-2014; Amigos do Protocolo de Kyoto 2011-2014; Association femmes soleil d'Haiti 2011-2014; Center for Regional Policy Research and Cooperation “Studiorum” 2011-2014; Christian Legal Fellowship 2011-2014; Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre 2011-2014; and Conservation Force, Inc. 2011-2014.

Regarding the organizations Asian Centre for Human Rights 2011-2014, Consultative Council of Jewish Organizations 2011-2014 and Cross-Cultural Solutions 2011-2014, China’s representative asked the groups to clarify their position on Tibet, China.

Regarding the organization Association for Progressive Communications (APC) 2011-2014, China’s representative asked for details on its role in regional consultations.

E/C.2/2016/2/Add.26 — 15 organizations:  Crowley Children's Fund 2011-2014; Development Alternatives with Women for a New Era 2011-2014; DEVNET Association 2011-2014; Disabled Peoples' International 2011-2014; Dominican Union of Journalists for Peace 2011-2014; Egyptian Center for Women's Rights 2011-2014; European Disability Forum 2011-2014; Transport Safety Council 2011-2014; Federal Union of European Nationalities 2011-2014; Fondation Humanus/Humanus International 2011-2014; Foundation for Aboriginal and Islander Research Action Aboriginal Corporation 2011-2014; Foundation for Research on Technology Migration and Integration 2011-2014.

Regarding the organizations Defence for Children International 2011-2014; First Nations Summit 2011-2014; and Forum for Women and Development-FOKUS 2011-2014, China’s representative asked the groups to clarify their position on “Tibet”.

Interactive Dialogue

During the afternoon’s question and answer session, a representative of the Ensemble Contre la Peine de Mort (France) responded to questions raised during the morning session.  The group had attended, over the last three years, the World Congress against the Death Penalty and would attend to forthcoming gathering in Oslo in June.  The Congress gathered all relevant stakeholders and participants with a range of perspectives and positions from civil society and diplomatic and political representatives.  Participants gathered in the spirit of dialogue, he said, adding that his group respected the sovereignty of every State.  His organization provided information and technical advice.

The representative of China asked for clarification of the group’s position on “Taiwan”.

The group’s representative said the organization worked within the framework of the United Nations and worked with sovereign States.  The organization was not very active in China, Hong Kong or Taiwan and had never held seminars there.

China’s representative asked for clarification, with respect to “Taiwan” and Tibet, China, of the group’s position.

The organization’s representative said his group respected the full sovereignty of China and did not take a stand on those matters.

China’s representative asked if the group recognized Tibet and “Taiwan” were integral parts of China and could not be separated from China.

The group’s representative said it recognized the sovereignty of China.

China’s representative asked for the response in writing.

Iran’s representative asked about the group’s website, which showed that only two or three countries were a focus of projects.

The Committee then decided to postpone its consideration of the organization.A representative of the non-governmental organization Access Now (United States) addressed questions posed earlier in the day, explaining that his group was focused on extending access for all people to information and communications technology.  That included activities in the United Nations, including a recent project that entailed providing information to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).  The group supported and upheld the principles of the United Nations Charter and worked to ensure their information was accurate and impartial.

The representative of Cuba asked for clarification of the role of the executive director and secretary of the group.

In response, the group’s representative said that he was both executive director and secretary.

The representative of Cuba then asked about why the name of the group had changed from the name “Media Access International”.

South Africa’s representative asked about the impact on African communities, given access challenges.  She requested details on relations with companies with regard to projects on corporate social responsibility and for disaggregated data on grants and the miscellaneous income listed in the application.

The group’s representative said Internet penetration was an important issue as the organization aimed at broadening access.

China’s representative asked how the group specified “at risk” digital rights of users.  She also asked whether the group considered those rights were considered to be a political or social right.

Cuba’s representative asked for further financial details on the “reasonable compensation” of members, given that the group was a non-profit organization.

Nicaragua’s representative asked if the group planned to hold events in Latin America.

The Committee then decided to postpone its consideration of the organization.