We are proud to announce that, following the most recent Board meeting of the United Nations’ Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations in Consultative Relationship with the United Nations (CoNGO) held in Gothenburg, Sweden, the INA has been officially approved as a member with consultative status within the United Nations, through the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). One of the most significant developments this year by becoming the first organization of its kind to join the CoNGO as an associative member. This milestone underscores the growing recognition of nightlife as a key driver of global culture and economy, as well as its potential to align with international goals for sustainability and inclusivity.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with consultative status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) play a crucial role in the United Nations Forum by providing expertise, information, and diverse perspectives. The INA has the opportunity to participate in UN events and debates, present written statements, cooperate with other NGOs, collaborate with UN agencies, access information and resources, and participate in consultations. Therefore, the INA, as a representative of the nightlife industry, brings a unique and valuable perspective to discussions on topics such as economic development, social inclusion, culture, and responsible entertainment. By joining CoNGO, the INA positions itself as a key player in promoting a more sustainable nightlife sector that aligns with the values of the United Nations.
NGOs with consultative status at ECOSOC play a fundamental role in the United Nations Forum by giving voice to the concerns of civil society and promoting solutions to global challenges. Additionally, they establish direct relationships with world leaders, participate in key debates and negotiations, and influence the international agenda on issues related to the sector such as crime prevention and criminal justice, development and sustainable development, disarmament, peace and security, drugs, mental health and younger generation.
The INA will be represented by different global delegates, selected for their experience and knowledge in the sector, who will defend the industry’s interests before UN bodies, advocating for policies and programs that foster sustainability, safety, and responsibility in nightlife.
The appointment of official delegates to the UN is an essential milestone for the INA, solidifying its role as a key player on the international stage and demonstrating its commitment to building a more sustainable and just future for the nightlife industry and society.
The INA Has Appointed the Following Delegates to Represent the Organization:
- Michael Kill (European Region UN-CoNGO Representative), Vice President of the INA and CEO of Night
- Time Industries Association (NTIA UK)
- Joaquim Boadas (New York UN-CoNGO Representative), Secretary General of the INA
- Maurizio Pasca (Geneva UN-CoNGO Representative), President of the Italian Nightlife Association (SILB-FIPE)
- Hayan Abou Assali (Western Asia UN-CoNGO Representative) Delegate of the INA in Middle East.
- Rodolfo Di Pinto (Latin America and Caribbean Region UN-CoNGO Representative), President of the Argentinean Nightlife Association (FEDRA)
Joaquim Boadas, Secretary General of the INA, has stated, “For the INA, obtaining consultative status with the UN’s CoNGO through ECOSOC is vital to amplifying our international voice and gain prestige. This status enables active participation in United Nations discussions on safety, drug prevention, sustainability, and the nighttime economy, while allowing us to share expertise, propose policies, and collaborate globally to promote best practices and joint initiatives”.
Nightlife Takes a Definitive Step Toward a New Reality in 2025
2025 marks a groundbreaking shift for the global nightlife industry, setting new standards and paving the way for a transformative future. With a renewed focus on sustainability, education, accessibility, security, quality, and gastronomy, the nightlife sector is embracing a paradigm shift that positions it as a dynamic force for cultural, economic, and social innovation.
The INA continues to lead the way since it has been doing so since its foundation in 2012, with its International excellence distinctions, which highlight the sector’s commitment to security, acoustic quality, quality of service, sustainability, accessibility, security, and gastronomy. Recognized worldwide, these distinctions set the gold standard for venues that prioritize innovation and excellence. Among these distinctions are the International Nightlife Safety Checked (INSC), International Nightlife Acoustic Quality (INAQ), and International Nightlife Quality Service (INQS), which make up the Triple Excellence distinction and, at last, the GastroMoon distinction. These seals are expanding globally and are already present in four continents: North America, Europe, South America, and Australia.
Also, in collaboration with Appleton Private University, the INA is breaking new ground by launching the Faculty of Nightlife Studies, the first academic faculty dedicated to the science and art of nightlife management. This program will equip the current and next generation of industry leaders with the skills and knowledge to navigate the evolving demands of the sector.
This brand-new faculty, which will become a reality by the end of this year and offer online courses in English and Spanish, is projected to become a global leader in comprehensive and specialized training in the nightlife industry. It aims to promote a dynamic and enriching learning environment for all those involved in the nightlife sector, both those who work in it and professionals from other fields, such as civil servants, architects, engineers, or lawyers.
