The year 2011 was a turning point for the Arab world. The power of citizens has created new momentum for change, opening the door of opportunity for the Arab people. As an institution that provides regional public goods, ESCWA had to transform its approach to development. In this regard, ESCWA has started preparatory work in earnest to launch three key flagship publications that will chart out, in cooperation with intellectuals and researchers in the region, alternative development trajectories. In addition, to ensure that ESCWA reflected the aspirations of youth and women in the region, a series of youth dialogues and women’s discussion forums were organized over the past year. Throughout 2011, ESCWA built regional preparedness and momentum for the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) through a series of consultative events and publications. The preparatory process succeeded in building a harmonized Arab position regarding the objectives and themes of the Conference.

The 2011 Annual Report highlights the most significant efforts and achievements of ESCWA to respond to the rapidly changing situation in the Arab world, promote regional integration and facilitate inclusive and sustainable development. It   concludes with a perspective on the way ahead and the imminent challenging agenda, emphasizing the continuous commitment of ESCWA to the sustainable development of the region.