In a world facing deepening inequalities and rapid technological and environmental changes, the Second World Summit for Social Development provides a key platform to renew global commitments to social progress. Bringing together leaders from governments, international organizations, civil society, the private sector, academic institutions and the UN system, the event seeks to advance dialogue and action on sustainable development – and ensure that no one is left behind.
At the summit, UNFPA will highlight innovative solutions that place women, young people and communities at the centre of sustainable development. UNFPA’s sessions will show how demographic shifts touch people at every stage of life. From the aspirations of young people to the rights and well-being of older women, the discussions will highlight how inclusive policies can turn population change into opportunities for more equitable and resilient societies.
UNFPA-led sessions include the following:
Shaping Futures for Sustainable Development: What young people think about partnership, parenthood and the future
6 November
From housing costs to job stability, young people today face unique pressures when deciding if, when and how to start a family. This flagship UNFPA session will amplify the voices of young people worldwide. Co-hosted by UNFPA and the Government of the Republic of Korea, the high-level discussion will feature the presentation of preliminary findings from the Youth Reproductive Choices Survey, a first-of-its-kind global study conducted by UNFPA in more than 50 countries. The survey offers insights into how young adults are navigating partnership and family formation in a rapidly changing world.
Addressing Gender and Ageing: Centring older women in social development solutions
6 November
The story of a long life is often also the story of compounding inequality. Older women are a growing demographic, yet their rights, needs and tremendous contributions are often invisible in global development agendas. Co-hosted by UNFPA, UN Women and the Government of Finland, this high-level session will tackle the structural barriers that have disadvantaged women throughout their lives, leading to higher risks of poverty and exclusion in later years. The event will focus on practical, gender- and age-responsive approaches aligned with the summit’s pillars: poverty eradication, full employment and social inclusion.
Coherent Policy Responses to Demographic Change to Promote Sustainable Development
6 November
With global populations rapidly shifting, this session brings together 18 UN entities to promote a shared, evidence-based understanding of these shifts. The event will underscore how demographic trends directly link to global efforts to reduce poverty and inequalities, promote health and protect the environment. Rather than focusing on manipulating population trends, the session will champion rights-based policy responses that prioritize freedom of choice and human development outcomes. You can register here to attend the event online.
