Asia-Pacific has a wealth of knowledge, good practices and innovation of strategies and tools that can be scaled and adapted to reduce poverty, expand decent work and social protection, and support social integration by fostering gender equality and building solidarity across generations. Yet, in view of uncertainties and disruptions facing the region, including those related to climate change, demographic transitions and the increasing use of digital technologies, there is an urgent need for policies in the region that can foster integrated, inclusive and people-centered approaches to economic and social development.
Over the past decades, countries in Asia and the Pacific have made steady development gains. Measured by the Human Development Index, between 1990 and 2023, the region has achieved development gains exceeding 50 per cent in terms of a long and healthy life, knowledge acquisition and a decent standard of living. Governments across the region are increasingly embracing development approaches that place people at their centre and integrate investments in social development with broader economic and climate resilience strategies.
The Second World Summit for Social Development will convene from 4 to 6 November 2025 in Qatar. This Summit builds upon the original principles set forth in the Copenhagen Declaration, facilitating a renewed dialogue among member States to achieve social development for all. It offers a valuable opportunity for countries in the Asia-Pacific region to assess social development trends, identify emerging challenges, and showcase innovative approaches and good practices in key areas driving transformational change and ultimately eradicate poverty, foster social inclusion, and promote productive and decent employment.
Strong regional cooperation enhances the ability to mobilize resources and strengthens resilience against shared social, economic and environmental risks. General Assembly resolution 78/318 called upon Regional Commissions to support the Summit and its preparatory process and thus builds on the Copenhagen Declaration which recognized the role of Regional Commissions to review and assess progress made towards implementing the outcome of the World Summit for Social Development.