From Copenhagen to Doha: The Second World Summit for Social Development and Africa
World leaders convene in Doha this week for the Second World Summit on Social Development (WSSD2), three decades after the inaugural event in Copenhagen. For Africa, this summit represents more than a milestone—it is a crucial moment to unite partners around lasting social development amid rapid global changes.
Africa's Progress and Ongoing Challenges
Over the past thirty years, Africa has achieved notable advances 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 categories.
Despite these successes, the continent continues to confront significant challenges such as climate shocks, economic instability, youth unemployment, and widespread inequality. The focus is no longer solely on lifting populations out of poverty but on fostering sustainable prosperity that can endure shocks.
An Evolving Approach to Development
The Second World Summit provides a platform for the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and African leaders to advocate for a fresh development model. This model emphasizes systemic, integrated, and inclusive growth rather than reactive or fragmented efforts.
The approach integrates social protection, productive opportunities, governance, and funding into a unified framework designed for resilience and long-term impact.
"Development is strongest when it is systemic, integrated, and inclusive, rather than fragmented or reactive."
Youth: Africa’s Future Drivers
Africa is the youngest continent globally, with over 400 million young people ready to influence innovation, labor markets, and global economies profoundly.
Author’s Summary: The Second World Summit highlights Africa’s transition from poverty reduction toward fostering resilient, inclusive development driven by its youth and systemic strategies.