We got into the opening plenary session of the Commission and darted to the back of the room where we saw a dozen or so empty seats.  Agents sat and tentatively listened to the opening sessions.  The main message of the opening plenary was that despite global economic growth, employment is not growing and the number of people underemployed (people who work but can't get enough hours) is actually growing.  

Speakers also laid out the context for how the process will continue.  For those readers new to the Commission on Social Development (CSocD), it is designed as a follow-up mechanism for governments to discuss the implementation of resolutions from a large social summit in Copenhagen in 1995.  This year is the first year that the CSocD has adopted a two year framework cycle.  What this means is that starting in 2007, the CSocD will pick a thematic issue, take one year to review best practices and case studies in that theme and the next year use those examples to set policies (2008).  The theme this year, and next, is "full employment and decent work for all."  Stay tuned for more info and analysis on CsocD policy.  

After an amazing lunch in the U.N. cafeteria, the Non-Government Organization (NGO) Committee for CSocD organized an orientation session for new delegates that the Agents attended.  It was a great crash course in "CSocD 101" and a welcome sign that the U.N. is really trying to build the capacity of NGO's to participate in international meetings.  Afterwards, the Non-Governmental Liaison Service of the U.N. and the U.N. Programme on Youth put on an orientation for NGO's and youth that laid out really the goals and framework for the major issues on youth that are going to come up during the negotiations.  

We ended the day with a SustainUS Agents share all.  The word that kept coming up was "tired."  it was a long day!  But Agents are also very excited to get involved and learn how to navigate the complex waters of international democracy.  More to come as the Commission continues!!!