In an effort to explore more fully the priority theme of the Commission for Social Development, the Baha'i International Community brought together members of the UN community and delegates to the Commission for two evening dinner discussions to explore the concept of empowerment. Member States and representatives from UN agencies and civil society organizations discussed the means and ends of empowerment and the role of individuals, communities and institutions.The second evening discussion, co-sponsored by UN Foundation, brought together young professionals participating at the Commission. A working paper on empowerment, initiated by the BIC, was offered to stimulate discussion. Informal notes.