Doha: Social development and social inclusion are fundamental to building strong and stable societies, said HE President of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly Annalena Baerbock, while emphasizing that development is not charity but rather a wise investment in peace, security, and human rights.
According to Qatar News Agency, in her remarks at the closing press conference of the Second World Summit for Social Development, hosted by Doha, Her Excellency expressed her gratitude to the State of Qatar, its government and people, for the successful hosting of the event and its continued support for international dialogue on development and peace issues.
Progress in social development over the past decades has been remarkable but uneven. Millions of children around the world still go to bed hungry, young people are without education, and women and men struggle to find work amidst limited opportunities, she added.
The crises the world is experiencing today, including the food crisis, are not solely due to a lack of resources, but also to conflicts, inequalities, and political failures, she said, calling for addressing the root structural causes of poverty and strengthening a global financial system that is appropriate for the challenges of the 21st century, alleviates debt burdens, and supports innovation.
The President of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly noted that peace and security are essential elements in combating poverty and hunger, pointing out that the real challenge lies not in a lack of funds, but in how to invest them effectively.
She warned that the climate crisis poses one of the greatest obstacles to achieving social development, emphasizing that social justice and peace cannot be achieved without addressing climate change.
She added that this year's conference marked a shift from discussion to the practical implementation of proven solutions, calling for concerted efforts from governments, civil society, and the business sector to implement effective policies capable of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
She stated that achieving gender equality and empowering women are essential prerequisites for achieving social justice and lasting peace, noting the importance of women's representation in decision-making positions, whether in politics or in the field of modern technology.
In closing, HE Baerbock affirmed that the conclusion of the Second World Summit for Social Development does not represent an end, but rather a new beginning for collective action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
For her part, HE Deputy Secretary-General of the UN Amina Mohammed emphasized that the sessions and panel discussions held throughout the Second World Summit for Social Development focused on exploring the requirements for rebuilding trust, strengthening social protection, expanding access to education and health systems, and supporting decent work and a new social contract.
In her remarks at the summit's closing press conference, she said that people are waiting for practical solutions that embody the concept of social justice, which is achieved through tangible results on the ground, noting that the Doha Political Declaration embodies the spirit to which people aspire and represents a commitment to placing human beings at the heart of sustainable development.
HE UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the Doha Political Declaration as a booster shot for development and a plan for humanity, she said, highlighting the commencement of efforts to accelerate the fight against poverty and inequality, and to provide real jobs and fair future opportunities that place all individuals on an equal footing.
She commended the significant and supportive efforts made by the State of Qatar throughout the conference, and praised the important role of the representatives of the Kingdom of Morocco and the Kingdom of Belgium to the UN, who were tasked with leading and facilitating the intergovernmental negotiations on the Doha Political Declaration.
The Deputy Secretary-General of the UN stressed the importance of persevering in implementation and building upon the achievements made in Doha during the conference.
For her part, HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani said: "The Second World Summit for Social Development has been truly historic, not only because it gathered leaders and policy-makers from across the world here in Doha, but because it renewed global commitment to placing people, families, and communities at the center of sustainable development."
"Over 40 head of states and governments and over 230 ministers and senior officials and 8,000 participants overall have taken part in this summit in person," Her Excellency added.
"This summit, the largest of its kind in three decades, brought together as well heads of international organizations, youth, civil society, academia, the business sector, and delegates from around the world."
HE the Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations indicated that: "Over 250 side events known as solution sessions took place. Organized to promote dialogue, partnerships and practical solutions for advancing social development."
"Throughout the summit, the State of Qatar showcased many initiatives and policies that reflect its national commitments, making remarkable strides in strengthening the foundation of the social fabric."
Her Excellency pointed out that "Through comprehensive social protection systems, family oriented policies, and empowerment programs, the government of the State of Qatar, through its different ministries and bodies - in particular, the Ministry of Social Development and Family - continues to ensure that women, youth, persons with disabilities, and older persons have access to opportunities, services and support."
"Beyond our borders, the State of Qatar's efforts continues through our international partnerships, notably via the Qatar Fund for Development and Education Above All Foundation, which extend support to millions around the world through education, health, and livelihood programs."
Her Excellency said: "These initiatives reflect Qatar's conviction that investing in people is the most sustainable investment a nation can make."
"At the heart of the summit was the adoption of the Doha Political Declaration on Social Development. This Political Declaration reflects a collective commitment to reinvigorate multilateralism and accelerate social development that leaves no one behind. It renews the world determination to strengthen efforts in poverty eradication, decent work, social inclusion, and universal social protection while advancing the 2030 agenda for sustainable development. It calls for universal gender responsive social protection, equitable access to health and education. It also reaffirms the link between social development, peace and security, recognizing that sustainable progress is one underpinned the others. Among its key priorities is the commitment to advance innovative solutions and inclusive international cooperation to achieve social development for all, particularly for developing countries," Her Excellency said.
HE the Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations said: "As we conclude this historic summit today, the State of Qatar believes the next steps must focus on three important priorities: Turning the commitments made here into actions by ensuring that social development remains at the top of national and international agendas. Building strong international cooperation to share knowledge, mobilize financing and support countries most in need for assistance. Leveraging innovation and digital transformation to make social services more accessible, efficient and equitable for all."
Concluding her remarks, Her Excellency said: "The outcomes of this summit, including the Doha Political Declaration, provides a strong foundation for a new era of global solidarity. But what matters most now is the implementation of the political declaration. Qatar remains fully committed to working with all partners to carry forward the spirit of this gathering to ensure that progress on social development continues long after the summit has ended."