Implementation of the Outcome of
The World Summit for Social Development

IV. Preparation for the thirty-sixth session of the Commission for Social Development

The thirty-sixth session of the Commission for Social Development will be held in February 1998, with the priority theme of promoting social integration and participation of all people, including disadvantaged and vulnerable groups and persons. Under this heading, the Commission will focus on the following specific topics: (a) promoting social integration through responsive government, full participation in society, non-discrimination, tolerance, equality and social justice; (b) enhancing social protection, reducing vulnerability and enhancing employment opportunities for groups with specific needs; and (c) violence, crime and the problem of illicit drugs and substance abuse as factors of social disintegration.

In order to assist the Commission in its work, the Secretariat is convening two workshops, to which independent experts from all regions are being invited, on the following subjects: (a) participation and social justice; and (b) reducing vulnerability. The background papers being prepared by the Secretariat, together with the reports of the respective workshops, will be made available to the Commission. The report of the Secretary-General to be submitted to the Commission will contain suggestions and policy options for giving further impetus to the implementation of the Copenhagen commitments and related policy recommendations included in the Programme of Action.