“Copenhagen taught us 30 years ago that social development and inclusion are essential for strong societies,” he said. “We promised not to leave anyone behind. Social development is not a “good” thing or an act of charity. It is for the benefit of each country.”
He warned that current hunger and poverty are not caused by scarcity, but by conflict, inequality and political failures, and stressed: “One of the biggest problems is not money as such. It is rather how it is invested.”
More than 40 Heads of State and Government, more than 230 ministers and senior officials and almost 14,000 attendees participated in the Summit.
In addition to formal plenary sessions and roundtables, more than 250 “solution sessions” were held to exchange practical approaches to expand social protection, improve access to healthcare and education, and support work that provides dignity.
‘People expect results’
Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed said the result reflects the urgency expressed by civil society, unions, community leaders, businesses and youth representatives throughout the week.
“The message has been clear: people expect us to provide answers, not simple statements,” he said. “The Doha Political Declaration is not a document to be kept on the shelves. It is a commitment to put people at the center of sustainable development.”
He stressed that implementation must now focus on accelerating poverty reduction, creating real jobs and ensuring that no one is left behind. “We have opened the door in Doha. Now we must go through it together.“
‘Invest in people’
Ambassador Alya Ahmed Saif Al-Thani of Qatar said hosting the Summit reflects her country’s conviction that equality, dignity and inclusion are essential for peace and prosperity.
“Investing in people is the most sustained investment a nation can make,” he said, highlighting Qatar’s social spending at home and international development partnerships abroad.
He stressed that the priority now is to ensure that commitments move from page to policy, supported by international cooperation and innovative financing.
“The results of this Summit provide a solid foundation,“she said.”What matters most now is implementation.“
UN regional organizations will support monitoring
The regional economic commissions said they will help countries translate commitments into practical measures.
The Economic Commission for Europe highlighted support for aging policies, affordable housing, just energy transitions and better data on poverty, helping governments design systems that reach those most at risk.
The Economic Commission for Africa highlighted the continent’s “youth potential” and called for investments in education, skills, employment opportunities and entrepreneurship, in partnership with the African Union and regional institutions.
UN News has been on the ground in Doha covering the Summit throughout the week. Follow our coverage here.