The International Labour Organization (ILO) has welcomed the adoption of the Doha Political Declaration, the central outcome of the Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2) held in Qatar from November 4–6, 2025. The Declaration reaffirmed social development as a shared global responsibility and emphasized the importance of multilateralism, international law, and cooperation in advancing social justice. ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo highlighted that the summit reinforced the need for progress in both economic and social spheres, putting fairness, decent work, and dialogue at the heart of global policy.
The Doha Declaration renews and updates the commitments made at the 1995 Copenhagen Summit on poverty eradication, employment, and social inclusion while addressing current global challenges such as climate change, digital transformation, and demographic shifts. It calls for macroeconomic policies that foster decent jobs and living wages, stronger labour institutions, and universal social protection systems. The Declaration also advocates for fair and inclusive transitions in green and digital economies, enhanced investment in the care sector, and increased efforts to achieve gender equality and expand opportunities for young people.
The WSSD2 drew participation from over 40 Heads of State and Government, 230 ministers, and nearly 14,000 attendees, marking a renewed global commitment to put people and social justice at the center of sustainable development. The ILO hosted several key events, including the Global Coalition for Social Justice Forum, co-organized with Qatar, Brazil, and Switzerland. Chaired by the ILO Director-General, the Forum brought together global leaders, employers, and workers to showcase progress, announce new commitments, and translate the Doha Declaration into concrete actions supporting decent work and social protection.
Beyond the main Forum, the ILO organized several tripartite side events addressing issues such as living wages, fundamental labour rights, and universal social protection, alongside other partner-led discussions. These events demonstrated practical solutions and strengthened collaboration among governments, employers, and workers. Through its active participation, the ILO reaffirmed its leadership in promoting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG 8, which focuses on inclusive economic growth and decent work for all. Moving forward, the organization will work with partners to ensure the implementation of the Doha Declaration, turning social justice commitments into tangible results for people and the planet.
