Excellencies,
Dear colleagues,
Let me begin by thanking the Government of Qatar for convening this important event.
The High-Level Political Forum has the crucial role in tracking SDG progress and championing an integrated, holistic approach to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.
The call for integrated approaches lies at the heart of the Copenhagen Declaration on Social Development. At the 1995 Summit, world leaders recognized economic, social and environmental development as interdependent and mutually reinforcing, calling for a holistic, people-centred approach.
As we prepare for the Second World Summit for Social Development, we must not only revive this vision, but more importantly, act upon it.
With just five years left to achieve the SDGs, we are not meeting our goals.
On health, not a single target is on track for 2030.
Access to essential health services remains profoundly unequal.
Gender inequality remains a global concern. Discriminatory laws and economic disparities persist despite some progress.
Similarly, progress on decent work has been disappointing.
Over 2 billion workers worldwide are trapped in informal employment, and economic growth alone has failed to deliver quality jobs or foster inclusion.
To reverse this trend, full and productive employment and decent work must be central macroeconomic objectives. The ongoing digital and green transitions must be managed to be inclusive and just for all.
Excellencies,
Distinguished delegates,
Robust social policies¡ªencompassing social protection, education, health, food, housing, and digital access¡ªremain essential. We must commit to safeguarding them, especially during crises when they are most needed.
But social goals cannot be realized through social policy in isolation. We must forge greater coherence between economic and social policies.
The upcoming Second World Summit for Social Development presents a historical opportunity to align economic frameworks with social objectives. This is paramount to harnessing the synergies across the SDGs. It means elevating full employment, decent work and the reduction of inequality from afterthoughts to core macroeconomic priorities.
Earlier this month, at the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, Member States pledged to close financing gaps and mobilize high-impact initiatives. The Social Summit can help ensure that these commitments deliver social outcomes¡ªadvancing equity, resilience and trust.
Let us seize this moment to recommit to equality, solidarity and social justice¡ªnot just as abstract values, but as actionable strategies for building peace and resilience.
Thank you.