Doha: HE President of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Annalena Baerbock has declared the adoption of the Doha Political Declaration as a crucial step towards achieving inclusive social development. Baerbock emphasized that Doha should represent the final phase in a journey that began in Copenhagen three decades ago.
According to Qatar News Agency, Baerbock, speaking at the opening session of the Second World Summit for Social Development – Doha 2025, reflected on the lessons of the 1995 Copenhagen Conference. She highlighted that social development and inclusion are vital for robust societies. Baerbock called for Doha to lead the charge in ending social injustice and ensuring dignity for all.
Baerbock noted the progress made over the past three decades, with global unemployment dropping from 30% in 1995 to a historic low of 5% in 2024. However, she acknowledged that economic growth alone has not addressed poverty universally, as gaps and structural imbalances persist. She highlighted the plight of girls in many countries who remain marginalized due to factors beyond their control.
Baerbock further emphasized disparities in unemployment rates, pointing out that while some countries boast rates below 1%, others face rates exceeding 20%. She stressed the importance of a collective effort to create a fair world for all, regardless of their circumstances.
Addressing shared challenges, Baerbock identified the climate crisis as the greatest barrier to social development. She cited recent climate disasters, such as Hurricane Melissa’s $2 billion impact in the Caribbean, which underscore the urgent need to address climate change. Baerbock warned that continued warming could increase food insecurity for nearly 200 million people.
Baerbock articulated the interconnectedness of various global issues, asserting that solutions must be holistic. She highlighted the significance of the Doha Declaration and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as frameworks for advancing social development. She called for renewed commitment to these goals at upcoming international summits.
The President also addressed financing challenges, underscoring the need to fill the four trillion US dollar gap to achieve the SDGs. She advocated for a new global financial architecture to tackle debt, boost international funds, and promote equitable investment. Baerbock stressed the role of public-private partnerships in creating jobs and improving infrastructure.
Concluding her remarks, Baerbock affirmed the collaborative spirit behind the Doha Declaration, noting that its implementation would require unity and effort. She expressed optimism for leveling the playing field for all.
It is noteworthy that the Doha Political Declaration was formally adopted at the conference’s opening session, following intergovernmental negotiations in New York. According to the United Nations, this declaration marks a pivotal moment in efforts to accelerate social progress and build more inclusive, just, and sustainable societies.