Summary: Speaking at the opening of the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar, UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a powerful indictment of global inequality, declaring it “intolerable” that nearly four billion people remain without access to any form of social protection. His remarks set the tone for a summit focused on inclusive growth, justice, and the urgent need to reform global development systems.
A Stark Warning on Social Injustice
Guterres described the current state of global inequality as “inconceivable,” noting that in a world of abundant resources, 700 million people still live in extreme poverty, while the wealthiest 1% hold nearly half of global wealth press.un.org.
“It is intolerable that almost four billion people lack access to any form of social protection at all,” he said, calling the situation a moral and political failure of the international community press.un.org.
He emphasized that social protection is not a luxury but a fundamental human right, essential for dignity, resilience, and sustainable development.
The Doha Political Declaration
The summit culminated in the adoption of the Doha Political Declaration, which Guterres hailed as a “booster shot for development” amid mounting global uncertainty press.un.org.
- The declaration commits member states to expand universal social protection, promote full employment, and uphold human rights.
- It also calls for reforms to global financial institutions to better support developing nations and reduce systemic inequalities.
UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock echoed the urgency, stating that “social development and inclusion is essential for strong societies.”
Global Participation and Goals
The summit brought together over 14,000 participants, including 40 heads of state, 170 ministers, and representatives from civil society, youth organizations, and international institutions Doha News.
- Discussions focused on poverty eradication, climate justice, and inclusive economic growth.
- Delegates stressed the need for people-centered development, especially in the face of geopolitical instability and climate-driven displacement.
Looking Ahead
Guterres urged governments to move beyond rhetoric and deliver concrete action, warning that failure to address social exclusion would undermine global peace and prosperity.
“We must build a world where opportunity is not a privilege for the few, but a right for all,” he concluded.
The summit’s outcomes will inform future UN development frameworks and are expected to shape negotiations at upcoming global forums, including the 2026 High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development.
In short: At the World Social Summit in Doha, UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the global failure to provide social protection to nearly four billion people, calling for urgent reforms and inclusive development. The Doha Declaration sets a bold agenda to confront inequality and reaffirm social justice as a cornerstone of global progress.
Sources:
press.un.orgUN Press Office – SG/SM/22893
Doha NewsDoha News – World Social Summit Launch
