The ECOSOC's 54 members are elected by the UN General Assembly for overlapping three-year terms. Voting within the council is by a simple majority and each member has one vote.
Through its discussion of international economic and social issues and its policy recommendations, the ECOSOC plays a key role in fostering inter cooperation for development and in setting priorities for action.
ECOSOC election procedures follow the UN General Assembly's Rules of Procedure. Election requires a two-thirds majority and the largest number of votes. Membership can be renewed immediately after it expires Dec 31.