From Copenhagen to Doha: Why the Second World Summit for Social Development Matters for Africa
World leaders are convening in Doha this week for the Second World Summit on Social Development (WSSD2), marking thirty years since the first Summit in Copenhagen. For Africa, this event is more than a commemoration; it represents a crucial chance to unite partners around sustainable social development amid a rapidly evolving global landscape.
African Progress and Ongoing Challenges
In the past three decades, Africa has achieved significant strides in reducing extreme poverty, expanding access to education, and enhancing health outcomes. Currently, 31 African nations have reached middle-income status, encompassing both lower-middle and upper-middle-income categories. However, the continent continues to grapple with persistent issues such as climate shocks, economic instability, youth unemployment, and inequality.
A New Development Focus
The focus today extends beyond simply lifting people out of poverty. It aims to ensure that prosperity is both sustainable and resilient to various shocks. This shift requires new development strategies that emphasize systemic, integrated, and inclusive approaches rather than fragmented or reactive ones.
The Second Summit's Vision
The Second World Summit serves as a platform for the UNDP and African leaders to promote an approach that links social protection, productive opportunities, governance, and financing into a unified framework.
"Development is strongest when it is systemic, integrated, and inclusive, rather than fragmented or reactive."
Africa, as the youngest continent globally with over 400 million youth, stands at the forefront of shaping innovation, labor markets, and global economic trends.
Author's summary: The summit highlights Africa’s progress and stresses the need for sustainable, integrated social development to address ongoing economic and social challenges amid a youthful and dynamic population.