IFS United Nations News and Advocacy
Follow news, statements, events and advocacy connected with the IFS United Nations Working Group.
This page brings together updates on human rights, social justice, sustainable development, civil-society participation and IFS engagement with United Nations processes and international partners.
Learn more about the IFS United Nations Working Group, our general consultative status with ECOSOC and how members can participate through the IFS and the United Nations page.
Safe Homes for All Begin with Community Power
Safe housing is a fundamental human right, yet billions face inadequacy and insecurity. In a joint statement for the 2026 International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, the International Federation of Settlements and Neighbourhood Centres (IFS) and the International Association for Community Development (IACD) call for urgent, community-led solutions that put people and power at the heart of housing policy.
International Federation of Settlements Calls for Civilian Protection Amid Escalating Regional Conflict
The International Federation of Settlement Houses and Neighbourhood Centres (IFS), representing more than 11,000 community-based organisations in 30 countries, expresses deep concern about the rapidly worsening military confrontation in the Middle East. The situation has caused significant civilian casualties, widespread fear, and the destruction of vital community and social infrastructure. IFS supports the United Nations’…
Who Decides? Shaping Human Rights for People with Dementia
Dementia is often viewed strictly through a medical lens—a diagnosis to be managed or a condition to be treated. However, as the global population ages, we are witnessing a crucial shift in perspective. Dementia is not just a health issue; it is a matter of equity, disability, and fundamental human rights. Currently, more than 55…
Human Rights, Social Justice, and Community Work
Community Work, Human Rights, and the Settlement and Neighbourhood Centre Movement Ken Burns’ 2014 documentary series, “The Roosevelts: An Intimate History,” offers a captivating exploration of a family whose name has resonated through U.S. and global history for decades. The final episode focuses on one of my personal heroes, Eleanor Roosevelt. Her tireless work as…
Invitation to Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Human Rights Declaration
Identifying the Vital Role that Civil Society Plays in Advocating for Human Rights | New York On the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the NGO Committee on Human Rights/NY, together with the NGO Committee on Ageing/NY, identifies the vital role that civil society plays in advocating for and realising human rights. …
UN International Day of Older Persons: Celebrating Across Generations
UN International Day of Older Persons: Celebrating Across Generations We’re delighted to announce that Chris Hanway of Jacob Riis Settlement and Ariana A. Elezaj of Lenox Hill Neighborhood House are co-chairing this year’s UN International Day of Older Persons event. Taking place at the UN in New York City and also viewable on UN…
