UPSC Mains 2017 GS2 Q10 — International Organizations

• Definition and core mandate of ECOSOC as a principal organ of the UN
• Specific policy coordination and advisory roles (functions)
• Classification and categorization of the functional commissions
• The linkage between ECOSOC and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• Confusing 'Functional Commissions' (e.g., Status of Women) with 'Specialized Agencies' (e.g., WHO, ILO).
• Wasting word count on the history or general UN structure instead of focusing on ECOSOC specifically.
• Failing to name specific commissions, leading to a vague answer that lacks technical depth.
• Neglecting the 'Economic' and 'Social' dual nature by focusing only on one aspect.

Allocate 40 words to the three primary functions (coordination, review, and recommendation). Use 80 words to categorize and name at least 3-4 specific functional commissions like the Commission on the Status of Women or Social Development. Reserve 30 words for an introduction and a concluding sentence on ECOSOC's relevance to the 2030 Agenda.