Press Release | World Leaders in Doha Unite for Just and Inclusive Societies
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals - Time for Global Action for People and Planet
Doha, Qatar, 4 November 2025 – Amid geopolitical tensions and growing inequalities, world leaders gathered at the Second World Summit for Social Development to adopt the Doha Political Declaration. This declaration reflects a renewed commitment worldwide to foster more just and inclusive societies.
The Declaration symbolizes a unified promise by governments to combat poverty, generate decent employment, promote equality, and safeguard human rights. It emphasizes that social development is both a moral duty and a cornerstone for peace, stability, and sustainable economic growth.
“True development isn’t about prosperity for the few,” stated UN Secretary-General António Guterres during the opening press conference. “It’s about opportunities for the many, grounded in social justice, full employment, and human dignity.”
The Secretary-General described the Doha Political Declaration as a “booster shot for development” and “a people’s plan.” He underscored the need for urgent progress in four key areas:
- Accelerate ending poverty and inequality by strengthening social protection systems
- Create decent jobs through skills development, inclusion, and equal opportunity
- Mobilize finance for developing countries through global system reforms and debt relief
- Ensure no one is left behind by empowering those at greatest risk of exclusion
This collective action aims to ensure that social justice and inclusion become foundational elements of global progress.
“It’s about opportunities for the many, grounded in social justice, full employment, and human dignity.” — António Guterres
Author’s summary: At the Doha Summit, global leaders recommitted to social justice, equity, and economic inclusion, emphasizing immediate steps to eradicate poverty and empower vulnerable populations.