I often get asked this question so I have put together some information below. You are welcome to email me at inka.weissbecker@gmail.com with any questions.

Committees in New York

NGOs who have consultative status at the United Nations can participate in several committees at the United Nations in New York. These committees are organized under the Conference of NGOs in Consultative Relationship with the United Nations (website: http://www.ngocongo.org/) and are listed here: http://www.ngocongo.org/index.php?what=committees&start=2

Some committees are open for everyone to attend (the general public, those who do not have a UN badge). Generally, committee meetings last about 2 hours and have panel presentations (given by others NGOs, UN personnel or other experts) and discussions around a certain topic.

I’m on the executive board of two committees which are both open to the public:

The NGO Committee on Mental Health (http://www.mentalhealthngo.org)
This committee meets every second Thursday of the month from 2-4pm at the church center across from the United Nations building in New York (room assignments are always posted in the lobby).
If you would like to get on the email list for announcements, send an email to mentalhealthngo@worldnet.att.net

I’m also directing a working group on trauma and mental health from 1-2pm right before the general meeting (see http://www.mentalhealthngo.org/content.html?page=3). During this group we share announcements and talk about ongoing projects (e.g. a project on climate change and mental health, see http://www.excelser.net/climatecaucus/mental_draft.htm)
If you would be interested in joining this group, just email me (inka.weissbecker@gmail.com)

The NGO Committee on the Family (http://www.ngocongo.org/index.php?what=committees&id=7)
This committee meets every fourth Thursday of the month (variable times and locations).
If you would like to get on their email list for announcements, email Nadia Shmigel at nadia@shmigel.us

If you would like to learn more about these committees, just send me an email.

Briefings
Every Thursday from 10-12noon, NGO/DPI briefings are held at the UN (see http://www.un.org/dpi/ngosection/about-wkly-brief.asp for general information and click on the under “weekly briefings” to find the calendar and topics). You need a UN badge to attend those briefings but if you are interested in going, you can send me an email and I may be able to get you a guest pass if I’m in NYC that day.

Conferences and Events
There are several other events that happen at the United Nations, such as the 2nd Annual Psychology Day at the United Nations on November 20th. This day will include several speakers and panels as well as discussion and a reception. The event is open to the public, for more information or to register, email Dr. Florence Denmark: fdenmark@pace.edu