Our Mission

The Institute of International Social Development (IISD) is committed to fostering dialogue between states, peoples, and communities; promoting sustainable development; reducing inequalities between people; and protecting human and civil rights. As an independent, non-denominational, and non-partisan organization, IISD pursues exclusively socially useful purposes through research, education, training, and international cooperation.

Our Vision

IISD envisions a world where social development is equitable, inclusive, and sustainable; where international cooperation transcends geopolitical divides; and where the voices of civil society contribute meaningfully to global governance. The Institute strives to be a leading intellectual and operational hub for social development research and practice in the Global South and beyond.

Who We Are

Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Kolkata, India, the Institute of International Social Development is a non-governmental organization (NGO) that operates as a moral, private, independent entity. Over the past three decades, IISD has built a robust network of partnerships with United Nations bodies, national governments, academic institutions, and civil society organizations across continents.

The Institute holds consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), which enables it to participate in UN meetings, submit written statements, and engage with ECOSOC subsidiary bodies on matters related to international social development. This status reflects the international community's recognition of IISD's contributions and expertise.

"The Institute of International Social Development intends to contribute to the growth of knowledge and the spread of values of peace, solidarity, and cooperation among peoples."

Core Values

  • Independence: IISD maintains intellectual and operational independence, free from partisan political or religious influence.
  • Excellence: The Institute upholds rigorous standards in research, training, and all its activities.
  • Inclusivity: IISD is committed to diversity, equity, and the participation of marginalized communities in development processes.
  • Integrity: Transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct guide all Institute operations.
  • Collaboration: IISD believes in the power of partnerships and multi-stakeholder engagement.

What We Do

IISD's activities span several interconnected areas:

  • Research: Conducting multidisciplinary research on international social development, human rights, sustainable development, and international relations.
  • Training & Education: Offering professional training programmes for diplomats, government officials, NGO workers, and students.
  • Conferences & Seminars: Organizing international conferences, workshops, and roundtables to facilitate dialogue and knowledge exchange.
  • Publications: Producing research reports, policy briefs, and newsletters to disseminate findings and recommendations.
  • UN Engagement: Actively participating in UN ECOSOC sessions, Human Rights Council mechanisms, and other UN forums.
  • Field Projects: Implementing community-level social development initiatives, particularly in South Asia and the Global South.

Our Geographic Focus

While IISD operates globally, the Institute maintains a particular focus on South Asia, where its headquarters is located, and on the broader Global South. IISD recognizes the unique social development challenges facing developing nations and works to amplify their voices in international fora while supporting locally-led solutions.

UN ECOSOC Consultative Status

IISD's consultative status with ECOSOC is a cornerstone of its international identity. Organizations with this status are authorized to:

  • Attend and participate in meetings of ECOSOC and its subsidiary bodies
  • Submit written statements on issues within their competence
  • Engage with UN member states and other stakeholders in formal and informal settings
  • Collaborate with UN specialized agencies and programmes

IISD's UN profile is publicly accessible through the UN Civil Society Database (Profile Code: 1993).