Private Sector Forum Urges Stronger Collaboration for Sustainable Social Development

Bassyonni

ago 4 hours

The Private Sector Forum, held recently in Doha, Qatar, gathered over 150 leaders from business, government, international organizations, and civil society. This event was part of the Second World Summit for Social Development. Collaborators included the United Nations Global Compact and the International Organisation of Employers (IOE).

Collaboration for Sustainable Social Development

The focus of the forum was on how the private sector can enhance social development, equality, and decent job opportunities. As the world undergoes significant economic, social, and technological changes, the discussions emphasized building inclusive workplaces and providing reskilling opportunities for workers of all ages.

“The challenges of our time, including technological disruption and climate change, require collaboration,” said Tonilyn Lim, Chief of Programmes at the UN Global Compact. She highlighted the essential role businesses play in job creation and fostering inclusion, equity, and respect for human rights.

Key Discussions and Initiatives

High-level panels addressed critical issues such as:

Building skills for the future workforce.
Fostering responsible business conduct.
Scaling inclusive business models.
Mobilizing sustainable finance for social development.

Notable keynote speakers included:

H.E. Ms. Annalena Baerbock – President of the UN General Assembly
H.E. Dr. Ali bin Saeed bin Samikh Al Marri – Minister of Labour of Qatar
H.E. Ms. Valérie Berset Bircher – State Secretary in Switzerland
H.E. Roxana Mînzatu – European Commission Executive Vice-President
Mr. Gilbert Houngbo – Director-General of the International Labour Organization

Joint Statement and Call to Action

A joint statement by the IOE and the UN Global Compact was released, emphasizing the private sector’s crucial role in eradicating poverty and promoting full employment. The statement outlined the need for:

Decent and productive employment opportunities.
Support for living wage realization.
Strengthening education and digital skills.
Advancing gender equality and human rights.

Participants were urged to engage in multilateral and public-private partnerships. The statement concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders, including governments and civil society, to collaborate on social policies and responsible business practices, ensuring a shared vision of social progress.

Conclusion

The forum highlighted the essential partnership between the private sector and other stakeholders in driving sustainable social development. Together, they can build a future that prioritizes inclusivity and aims to leave no one behind.