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), thirty years after the inaugural Summit in Copenhagen. For Africa, this event represents not just a commemoration but a critical chance to unite partners around building sustainable social development in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Progress and Persistent Challenges in Africa

Over the past three decades, Africa has achieved notable gains in reducing extreme poverty, expanding access to education, and improving health outcomes. Currently, 31 African nations have reached middle-income status, including both lower-middle and upper-middle-income economies. However, challenges remain significant:

Climate shocks
Economic instability
Youth unemployment
Social inequality

The focus now extends beyond lifting people out of poverty to ensuring prosperity that is sustainable and resilient to unexpected shocks.

A New Development Approach for Africa

The Second Summit offers a platform for UNDP and African leaders to outline a new development approach. This strategy emphasizes systemic, integrated, and inclusive development rather than fragmented and reactive measures. It links social protection, productive opportunities, governance, and financing into a unified framework.

Africa is the youngest continent in the world, with over 400 million youth poised to shape global innovation, work, and markets.

This youthful population presents a unique chance to drive economic and social transformation on the continent.

Summary

The WSSD2 in Doha highlights Africa’s progress and challenges, promoting a fresh, integrated approach to social development that prioritizes resilience and inclusive growth backed by the continent's vibrant youth demographic.

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United Nations Development Programme — 2025-11-05