At a Glance
- Summit highlights include poverty eradication, universal social protection, and gender equality commitments.
- Engaged global leaders and diplomats in shaping social development policies worldwide.
- Doha Declaration advances sustainable development and equitable economic governance initiatives.
It was a privilege to participate in the once-in-a-generation Second World Summit for Social Development 2025 in Qatar. The summit convened world leaders, UN diplomats, consultants, stakeholders, and civil society members from across the globe.
Engaging in high-level panel meetings and forums on the sidelines was a profoundly shaping experience. Contributing to the dialogue that influenced the summit’s outcomes has further refined my vision and commitment to addressing global issues.
A key personal highlight was the opportunity to spend quality time with my good friend, the world-renowned economist Professor Jeffrey Sachs.
Our wide-ranging conversation covered the African economy, the war in Gaza, the emerging multi-polar world order, and the roles of China and Russia. It is a rare and invaluable opportunity to learn from one of the most sought-after and candid thought leaders of our time.
I was also pleased to reconnect with Her Excellency Amb. Olufolake Abdul Rasaq, the exceptional First Lady of Kwara State, and to once again receive wisdom from the diplomatic world’s “Queen Mother,” a figure who continues to inspire on the global stage.
Beyond the formal agenda, the summit provided an excellent platform for networking. I was fortunate to connect with dignitaries including the Irish Minister for Transport, Canada’s Minister of State, and Qatar’s Ministers of Sports and Education & Higher Education, Nigerian Minister for Women Affairs and Social Development, Canada’s Minister of State, President/CEO AWQAF Riyadh Center, President Sovereign Wealth, Qatari Minister of Labor, among many others.
Key Summit Outcomes:
The summit culminated in the Doha Political Declaration, which provides a robust roadmap for social development. Key commitments include:
- Reaffirming the interconnected pillars of poverty eradication, full employment, and social inclusion.
- Accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
- Increasing financing for developing nations and reforming global economic governance for greater equity.
- Strengthening universal social protection and ensuring equitable access to health and education.
- Advancing gender equality and addressing violence against women.
- Reaffirming the fundamental link between social development, peace, and security.
This experience has been immensely enriching, and I look forward to applying these insights to my ongoing work.
Compiled by: J Eniola
Diplomatic Area West Bay
Doha, Qatar
