27 February 2024 - Over 4 billion people worldwide lack access to basic social protection, leaving them vulnerable to economic shocks, health crises, and social exclusion. Urgent and concerted efforts are imperative to transform social security and social justice into tangible realities for all. This year¡¯s World Day of Social Justice united leaders around the world to pave the way for closing the inequality gap and building alliances in support of the Global Coalition for Social Justice.
¡°Social protection is a human right,¡± stated Maria-Francesca Spatolisano, Assistant Secretary-General for Policy Coordination and Inter-Agency Affairs at UN DESA. ¡°Developing social protection measures is the cornerstone of a human-centred approach to social justice. [¡] We need to work together through Global Coalition for Social Justice and other intergovernmental processes to ensure a balanced approach between environmental, social and economic dimensions of sustainable development,¡± she further explained.
The appeal aligned with the shared commitment of World Day of Social Justice. It emphasized the importance of human needs and rights as essential in promoting social justice, eradicating poverty, and closing the inequality gap to ensure no one is left behind.
The collective action toward advancing social justice is not just rhetoric but an inclusive policy strategy that fosters economic growth and stability. As stressed by speakers during the event, integrating robust social protection systems, quality education and equitable access to decent work is crucial for economies to function more cohesively and effectively.
When discussing bridging the vast divide between developed and developing countries regarding resources and capabilities, Ms. Spatolisano drew attention to the fact that ¡°health and social protection systems remain inadequate in SIDS, hampering economic productivity and disproportionately impacting the poorest and most vulnerable¡±. She suggested stakeholders ¡°support SIDS call for strengthening social protection system¡±.
The event underscored the necessity to foster social dialogue to cultivate cooperation at both national and international levels. Recognizing and upholding shared values that support the most vulnerable economies and provide decent work opportunities lead to tangible progress for people who need it most.
As the globe commemorated the World Day of Social Justice, the message from the event was clear: achieving a fair and equitable society is imperative for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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