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Policy Briefs |
This UN DESA policy brief revisits the landmark 1995 World Summit for Social Development in Copenhagen, which marked a pivotal moment in global efforts to place people at the centre of development. The Summit established a powerful political consensus around eradicating poverty, promoting full employment, and advancing social integration—anchored in a broader vision of social justice, solidarity, and equality.As Member States prepare for the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha this November, the brief argues that it is time to revitalize the integrated and people-centred approach first articulated in Copenhagen. It highlights the limitations of fragmented social policy…
Policy Briefs |
Persistent inequalities based on group characteristics—such as race, ethnicity, disability, and income—continue to shape people’s opportunities from birth through adulthood. Despite commitments under the 2030 Agenda and progress in promoting inclusion, inherited disadvantages still account for a large share of income inequality in many countries. These disparities, often passed from one generation to the next, reflect interlinked barriers in health, education, and employment that prevent entire population groups from fully participating in society.Social exclusion often begins in early childhood and compounds over time. Children from the poorest and most marginalized households are more…
Flagship Reports |
Economic insecurity, staggering levels of inequality, declining social trust and social fragmentation are destabilizing societies worldwide. The World Social Report 2025, reveals trends that are threatening communities and demand immediate, decisive policy action. The report calls for a new policy consensus anchored in three principles—equity, economic security for all, and solidarity—that are essential to strengthen the three dimensions of sustainable development.The report is the first to be co-produced with the United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER). This collaboration brings new research insights into the report, particularly on the…