Excellencies, Distinguished delegates,

I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of 77 and China on the modalities of the World Social Summit under the title "The Second World Summit for Social Development".

At the outset the group expresses its gratitude to the co-facilitators, the Permanent Representatives of the kingdom of Belgium and the Kingdom of Morocco, for their dedication as we negotiated the resolution. We also thank the delegation of Egypt for the hard work and commitment to the role of coordinator during the negotiation of the Resolution on the modalities of the WSSD within the Group.

The group also expresses its appreciation to the Government of Qatar for the offer to host this significant event. The group appreciates the flexibility and fairness, expressed by our partners, which led to the agreement that the second Summit be hosted by a member of the G-77 and China at the level of Head of State or Government in the State of Qatar from 4 to 6 November 2025.

Mr. President,

It is imperative that we build on the foundation laid by the inaugural summit, enhancing our strategies and modalities to better meet the evolving needs of our societies.

The Second World Summit for Social Development is a pivotal opportunity to reassess and refine our approaches towards social development, ensuring that they are inclusive, comprehensive sustainable, and responsive to the diverse needs of all. This resolution underscores the importance of collaborative efforts, innovative solutions, and a commitment to equity and justice in our pursuit of social progress.

Mr. President,

The Commission for Social Development (CSocD) plays and will continue to play a fundamental role in shaping and guiding the international social development agenda. Its efforts in policy formulation, research, and advocacy have been instrumental in addressing issues such as poverty eradication, social inclusion, and employment. Accordingly, the role of CSocD should be strengthened in this domain. The upcoming Summit will build upon the Commission's extensive work, ensuring that its insights and recommendations are integrated into our strategies and actions.

The group further recognizes that the broader United Nations system, including specialized agencies, funds, programs, and regional commissions, has significantly contributed to advancing social development. They have been pivotal in addressing a wide range of social issues, from health and education to gender equality and social protection. Their collective efforts have laid a strong foundation for sustainable development and will be integral to the discussions of the Summit.

The group also recognizes that, within the UN system, the mandate of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), has placed it as a leading UN agency in advancing the decent work agenda. We also note its contribution to the agenda of social justice, while recognizing the interdependence between the three core themes of social development to be accorded due attention on an equal basis.

Regarding the Political Declaration, the Group reiterates that it should be a concise, action-oriented declaration, agreed in advance by consensus through intergovernmental negotiations in New York. This declaration should emphasize a social development approach including the need to place people at the center of development and give momentum to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

The Second World Summit for Social Development serves as a crucial platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and the forging of new alliances and of international cooperation on the three core themes of social development, namely poverty eradication, full and productive employment and decent work for all and social integration. It is through such collective endeavors that we can address the root causes of unmet social development and create a more just and equitable world.

We reaffirm our commitment to the principles outlined in this resolution and call upon all stakeholders to actively engage in this global initiative. Together, we can build a future where social development is not merely an aspiration but a tangible reality for all.

I thank you for your attention.