Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Vibhu Mishra
November 1, 2025 Sustainable Development Goals
How can we build a society in which everyone feels a stake in social progress? In a world of increasing digital inequality, demographic shifts, and climate change, the promise of "social development for all" sounds more relevant than ever, but, frankly, it's not entirely realistic.
The idea that development should be people-centered, inclusive, and equitable is far from new. This vision was enshrined 30 years ago at the UN summit in Copenhagen – and remains relevant today.
Next week, world leaders will gather in Doha, Qatar, for a high-level UN conference to breathe new life into this vision. From November 4 to 6, the Second World Summit for Social Development will bring together heads of state, ministers, civil society representatives, and experts to assess progress, identify gaps, and chart a new course.
The focus is on a simple yet significant question: how can we ensure that no one is left behind?
"This summit comes at a critical time," said Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs. "Inequality is growing. Trust is eroding. Communities are facing conflict, climate shocks, and rapid technological change. At the same time, we are seeing incredible examples of innovation, sustainable development, and solidarity. This is our chance to restore trust, both among governments and peoples, and between countries."
A global call to action
Björg Sandkjær, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, called the summit a "global call to action." She noted that more than a billion people worldwide still live in poverty, and 40 percent of the planet's population lacks access to social protection.
The meeting, she told UN News Service, is aimed at restoring confidence in collective progress – “the belief that we can make a difference.”
© UNICEF/S. Poon
The summit was the result of months of intergovernmental negotiations in New York, culminating in the agreement on the Doha Political Declaration, which is planned to be formally adopted at the forum.
"This declaration is the heart and soul of the summit," said Alia Ahmed Saif Al-Thani, Permanent Representative of Qatar to the UN. "It is a global call to action, reaffirming governments' commitment to creating a favorable economic, political, social, cultural, and legal environment for achieving social development for all."
The turning point
With just five years left until the 2030 deadline to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the world is seriously lagging behind on many fronts. Poverty reduction has slowed, progress on gender equality has stalled, and many young people face an uncertain future.
When Member States called for this summit last year, they sent a clear signal: social development must be prioritized again. This is about returning to the core of the 2030 Agenda and ensuring that no one is left behind.
Dynamic and inclusive format
In addition to the official plenary sessions, a parallel program of events has been prepared. The Civil Society Forum, the Private Sector Forum, and the interactive "Solutions Square" will present innovations in employment, social protection, and community resilience.
The Doha Social Development Solutions Platform, jointly launched by Qatar and France, will present tangible commitments and new initiatives – from policy reforms to partnerships aimed at increasing employment, expanding inclusion, and combating poverty.
“The Doha Forum is becoming a symbol of global solidarity, where commitments inspire action, partnerships drive progress, and a shared vision of an inclusive, sustainable, and peaceful future for all is realized,” said Alia Ahmed Saif Al-Thani.
UNDP
Closing the circle
For Bjørg Sandkjær, who attended the first World Summit in Copenhagen in 1995 as an activist representing youth, the Doha forum symbolizes both continuity and change. Back then, she recalls, there was great optimism – a belief that multilateralism and cooperation would continue to grow.
"Today's youth face tougher challenges—disinformation, climate threats, mistrust," she said. "My message to young people is simple: your participation matters. Speak up, build new alliances, and push for action."
From words to deeds
The real test, says Bjørg Sandkjær, will be translating commitments into real improvements in people's lives – decent work, social protection, and greater inclusion: "That's when we'll know we've succeeded."
Thirty years after the meeting in Copenhagen, the challenge remains the same: to build a world in which progress is measured not only by wealth, but also by well-being, equality and human dignity.
The UN News Service will provide breaking news coverage from Doha throughout the summit, featuring the voices of political leaders, young activists, civil society representatives, and innovators driving change.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.