(MENAFN- Gulf Times) Thirty years after the landmark 1995 World Summit for Social Development in Copenhagen, the global community will gather once again - this time in Doha, for three days from tomorrow (Tuesday, November 4) for the Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2). In a world facing growing inequalities, demographic shifts, and rapid technological transformation, the need for a renewed commitment to social progress has never been more urgent.
Convening at the level of Heads of State or Government, WSSD2 aims to address the gaps and recommit to the Copenhagen Declaration on Social Development and the Programme of Action and its implementation and give momentum towards the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Pre-Summit events will kick off today (Monday, November 3) with Qatar co-hosting the First Leaders' Meeting of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, with Brazil, and the Doha Solutions Forum for Social Development, with France.
Building on the 10 Commitments of the 1995 Summit and the Copenhagen Declaration, the WSSD will accelerate action on poverty eradication, the promotion of full employment and decent work, and social inclusion, ensuring that no one is left behind in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. It aims to address persistent gaps, reaffirm global commitment to social development, and give new momentum to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
In Doha, world leaders will come together to redefine strategies for social progress, strengthen global partnerships, and promote inclusive policies that foster equitable opportunities for all. The goal: to build societies that are more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable. The Summit will serve as a pivotal platform for dialogue, co-operation, and joint solutions, convening governments, international organisations, the UN system, civil society, co-operatives, academia, the private sector, and experts to strengthen international co-operation for inclusive social development.
In his welcome message on the conference website, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani stated that this Summit will assess progress, identify implementation gaps, and reaffirm the collective commitment to advancing social development, ensuring that no one is left behind.
“The State of Qatar consistently upholds its commitment to human-centred development, both nationally and globally. Through investments in education, health, social protection, and the promotion of productive employment and decent work for all, we continue to advance social justice and foster inclusion. We have championed the integration of social, economic, and environmental policies, adopting a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach that places people at the centre of our development.
“The convening of this Summit in Doha reflects Qatar's deep belief in multilateralism and global solidarity. As a long-standing partner of the United Nations, the State of Qatar has consistently supported global efforts to promote peace, social justice, and sustainable development. Over the years, we have hosted numerous high-level UN conferences, providing a platform for dialogue and co-operation on some of the most pressing global challenges. These efforts reflect our enduring dedication to the values and objectives of the United Nations and our vision for a world where prosperity is accessible to all.
“As we prepare to welcome the world to Doha, we look forward to working closely with Member States, the United Nations, civil society, academia, and the private sector to advance social justice, rebuild trust in institutions, and shape a new course for global social development. The State of Qatar stands ready to contribute to this shared mission and to support a successful and transformative Summit,” His Highness the Amir added in his message.

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