From Copenhagen to Doha: Why the Second World Summit for Social Development Matters for Africa
World leaders are meeting in Doha this week for the Second World Summit on Social Development (WSSD2), held thirty years after the inaugural Summit in Copenhagen. For Africa, this event is not just a moment to commemorate but a critical chance to unite partners behind sustainable social development in a rapidly evolving world.
Over the past three decades, Africa has achieved notable progress in reducing extreme poverty, expanding education, and enhancing health outcomes. Currently, 31 African nations have reached middle-income status, including both lower-middle and upper-middle-income classifications. Despite these gains, the continent continues to face significant challenges such as climate shocks, economic instability, youth unemployment, and persistent inequality.
The focus has shifted from merely lifting people out of poverty to ensuring broad prosperity that is sustainable and resilient to disruptions. This shift demands a new approach to development.
A New Development Approach
The Second World Summit offers a platform for the UNDP and African leaders to propose a different path: one that sees development as most effective when it is systemic, integrated, and inclusive rather than fragmented or reactive. This framework weaves together social protection, economic opportunities, governance, and financing into a unified strategy.
"Development is strongest when it is systemic, integrated, and inclusive, rather than fragmented or reactive."
Africa's Youth: A Transformative Force
Africa is the youngest continent, home to over 400 million youth who are set to drive global innovation, workforces, and markets in the coming years.
This summit underscores the importance of harnessing this youthful demographic as a key component of building a prosperous and resilient future for Africa.
Author's summary: The WSSD2 in Doha presents Africa a crucial opportunity to advance sustainable, integrated development by addressing poverty, inequality, and youth empowerment amid ongoing social and economic challenges.