Social Integration is the priority theme for the 2009-2010 review and policy cycle, taking into account the relationship with poverty eradication and full employment and decent work for all.

The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) stresses that policies and strategies to achieve full employment and decent work for all should include specific measures to promote gender equality and foster social integration for social groups, such as youth, persons with disabilities, and older persons, as well as migrants and indigenous peoples.

ECOSOC recognizes its decision, in resolution 2006/18, in which it decided to discuss each of the core themes of the World Summit for Social Development — poverty eradication, full employment and social integration — under the two-year review and policy cycle.

ECOSOC reaffirms that social integration policies should seek to reduce inequalities, promote access to basic social services, education for all and health care, and increase the participation and integration of social groups.

Taking note of the report of the Secretary-General entitled “First review and appraisal of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing: preliminary assessment” and of the note by the Secretary-General entitled “Regional implementation of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, 2002”: It encourages Governments to continue their efforts to mainstream the concerns of older persons into their policy agendas, bearing in mind the crucial importance of family intergenerational interdependence, solidarity and reciprocity for social development and the realization of all human rights for older persons, and to prevent age discrimination and to provide social integration.

Members of the Bureau: