Frequently Asked Questions

“South-South” refers to the interaction and cooperation between two or more countries of the developing world, a growing phenomenon of developing countries sharing best practices and development policy with each other. The South-South Awards honors countries of the global South and highlights the need to share best practices so they can be transferred to other developing countries.

The South-South Awards are organized and supported by permanent missions to the United Nations, UN agencies, civil society and private sector organizations related to the annual theme.

It is co-organized and supported by a consortium of UN agencies, governments and private organizations related to the annual theme, and is held during the opening of the UN General Assembly high-level debate in September.

The ceremonies are financed through contributions from supporting stakeholders and organizers who share the objectives of the South-South Awards, the annual theme, and the overarching goal of global development.

Awards are selected by the Awards Committee based on the theme of the year. Individuals and countries are selected through deliberation of publicly available data from credible international sources, such as official United Nations reports.

Awards are presented as gold trophies during the Awards Gala. Recognitions are gold and silver plaques given in honor of ongoing commitments and progress in key areas of development, and can be presented outside the gala ceremony.

Distinguished individuals and organizations from government, the United Nations, private sector and civil society are eligible, provided they meet criteria set by the South-South Awards Committee, including relevance to the annual theme, availability of reliable data, and standing in the global development community.

The South-South Awards typically takes place during the annual General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly in September in New York City. Time and exact location are provided to invitees on their personalized invitations.

Awards are selected for presentation to individuals and organizations ahead of the event, based on the theme of the year.

Invitations addressed to Heads of State or Government are transferable to Heads of Delegation (Ministerial or Deputy Minister level) as one plus one guest passes; RSVP using the instructions on the original invitation. Ambassador-level invitations are transferable to the level of Deputy Permanent Representative, plus one guest.

The gala is a reception for Heads of State and Government and other VIP guests, followed by a sit-down dinner featuring the awards ceremony and world-class entertainment. A head table is reserved for Heads of State and Government, surrounded by tables of up to ten guests each.

The South-South Awards are broadcast via satellite for pickup by television channels around the globe, and webcast worldwide through this website.

Invitations are decided by the South-South Awards Invitation Committee and delivered to pre-selected individuals representing the main stakeholders of global development, including high-level UN officials, heads of state, and members of the diplomatic community.

Guest allowances are provided in your invitation. Access is limited to the number of guests indicated on your personalized invitation.

RSVPs are made by following the instructions included with your invitation. If you have questions, contact info@southsouthawards.com.