The General Assembly is the principal decision-making body of the Conference of INGOs. It meets at least once at every Session of the Conference.  The meetings may be held in Strasbourg or through  videoconferencing in order to increase the flexibility and attendance by the INGO members. 

The recent reform reinforced the role of the General Assembly with the aim of it having a more direct relationship with those member INGOs preparing subjects/topics for consideration.

Amongst its responsiblities are:

  • the election of the President, Vice-Presidents and members of the Standing Committee
  • the examination and adoption of the three-year strategic plan of the Conference
  • the establishment of committees and the approval of their mandates and reports
  • the adoption of common positions on fundamental issues - declarations, resolutions or recommendations