ECONOMIC COMMISSION FOR LATIN AMERICA (ECLA) Santiago, Chile Origin: Founded 1948 as a regional economic commission under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Initial Date of U.S. participation: 1948 Current authority for U.S. participation: United Nations Participation Act, 59 Stat 619 (Dec. 20, 1945); 22 USC 287 Purpose of organization: The purpose of the Commission is to coordinate policies for the promotion of economic development in the Latin American region. Its present role is set within the framework of the program for the Second United Nations Development Decade and its activities are directed to providing support to the regional and sub-regional integration movement in Latin America. Its program for 1971-72 and subsequent periods is focused on analysis of problems and formulation of policy proposals for Latin American regional economic development; foreign trade and Latin American exports; external financing; Latin American economic integration; employment; population; and development of science and technology in Latin America. Membership, 1972 (29 members): Sources: Europa Year Book, 1972. Vol. 1. London, Europa Publications Ltd., 1972. 83-877 0-72-9 (121) |