November 4, 2025

On Tuesday, at the second World Summit for Social Development held in Qatar, the United Nations marked a significant stride towards global social and economic improvement by adopting the Doha Political Declaration. This new directive urges nations worldwide to enhance poverty reduction strategies by integrating quality education as a fundamental element.
The Declaration emphasizes the urgent need to design poverty alleviation policies that cater specifically to the needs of children and advocates for the creation of employment opportunities that provide a living wage. Such initiatives are to be supported by macroeconomic policies tailored to the unique circumstances of each country, encouraging a synergistic contribution from both the public and private sectors.
Addressing the summit, UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the progress made over the past decades, with over a billion people lifted from poverty and improved access to health, education, and social protection. However, he also noted the prevailing conditions of "high uncertainty, divisions, and widespread suffering" that the world currently faces.
To combat these challenges, the Declaration calls for international cooperation to provide the necessary financial assistance and technical support essential for sustainable job creation. Furthermore, the UN has committed to investing in quality vocational and digital literacy education for both the youth and older adults, recognizing the evolving demands of the global job market.
The Doha Declaration aligns with the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, which serve as a universal blueprint for peace and prosperity for both developed and developing countries. These goals focus on various critical areas such as poverty eradication, improved health, and educational outcomes.
Additionally, the Declaration builds on the momentum from the 'Pact of the Future' adopted in 2024. This pact re-committed countries to uphold international law principles and aimed to shield future generations from the horrors of war.
With these comprehensive frameworks in place, the UN continues to lead global efforts towards a more equitable, sustainable future, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of social and economic development.