Why in news?
The United Nations General Assembly has scheduled a Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar from 4–6 November 2025. The summit has been called after almost three decades to rejuvenate the global conversation on social justice and to assess how well countries have delivered on promises made in the 1995 World Summit for Social Development. WSSD‑2 will provide a forum for governments, civil society and experts to discuss poverty, inequality and social integration in the face of modern challenges such as demographic change and digital technologies.
Background
The World Summit for Social Development was first held in Copenhagen in 1995. At that summit world leaders adopted the Copenhagen Declaration and its Programme of Action, pledging to eradicate extreme poverty, promote full employment and ensure social integration for all. Over the years these goals have been incorporated into the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. However, widening inequalities, the impact of COVID‑19 and rapid technological change have exposed gaps in social protection and employment. Responding to these concerns, the UN General Assembly adopted resolutions 78/261 and 78/318 in December 2023, deciding to convene a second summit to renew global commitment towards social development and social justice.
Objectives of WSSD‑2
- Renew commitment to social justice: Reaffirm the principles of the Copenhagen Declaration, including the eradication of poverty, decent work for all and equal opportunities.
- Assess progress and gaps: Review national efforts to reduce inequalities, expand social protection systems and integrate marginalised groups into education and employment.
- Address new challenges: Discuss how demographic changes, migration, climate change and digital transformation affect social development and how policies can adapt.
- Promote inclusive multilateralism: Provide space for governments, civil society organisations, youth, indigenous peoples and persons with disabilities to share experiences and shape global recommendations.
Significance
The second summit is expected to produce a Doha Consensus that will guide social policies for years to come. It offers an opportunity for countries to recommit resources toward poverty eradication, to strengthen labour markets and to extend universal social protection. By focusing on inclusive growth and social justice, WSSD‑2 aims to ensure that economic progress translates into well‑being for all and that no one is left behind in the pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Source: UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs – Second World Summit for Social Development