Non-governmental organizations wishing to establish close working relations and a firm basis for cooperation with UNCTAD are advised to apply for status.

The Trade and Development Board of UNCTAD has established consultative relations with non-governmental organizations to enable the Conference, the Board and its subsidiary bodies to secure information or advice from organizations which have special competence in the subjects for which relationship arrangements are made and to enable organizations that represent important elements of public opinion to express their views.

NGOs/CSOs granted observer status are invited to attend UNCTAD meetings and conferences. They can make oral statements on matters within the scope of their activities and circulate written material on matters related to an item of the agenda. They also receive ongoing information on UNCTAD current activities, studies, publication and documentation.