[1] UN DESA assists countries around the world in agenda-setting and decision-making with the goal of meeting their economic, social and environmental challenges.

In providing a broad range of analytical products, policy advice, and technical assistance, UN DESA effectively translates global commitments in the economic, social and environmental spheres into national policies and actions and continues to play a key role in monitoring progress towards internationally agreed-upon development goals.

It is also a member of the United Nations Development Group.

[2] Since 2007, leadership positions in UN DESA have been held by representatives from the People's Republic of China (PRC).

[3] UN DESA has been used to promote PRC's Belt and Road Initiative.