10/10/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/10/2025 13:24
9 October 2025, New York - European Union Statement at the United Nations General Assembly 80th Session Third Committee Interactive Dialogue with the Representative from UN DESA
Chair,
I have the honor to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States.
We thank UN DESA for the comprehensive information provided on recent social developments and the Secretary General for issuing the report on the implementation of the outcome of the 1995 World Summit for Social Development in Copenhagen.
We note with concern the rise in inequality, extreme poverty and growing insecurity outlined in the report, despite significant advances over the past decades. We share your concerns that eroding social cohesion and lack of trust are undermining social progress. Access to decent work, quality education and affordable housing are crucial in this regard.
The EU and its Member States are committed to reducing the number of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion by at least 15 million by 2030 out of which at least 5 million should be children as set out in the European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan.
At the same time, we are determined to promote ambitious international partnerships and are committed to jointly finding multilateral solutions to global challenges with Least Developed Countries and other partners.
The EU and its Member States remain committed to promote decent work as well as adequate and sustainable social protection. Every person should have the right to basic levels of social protection, especially children, persons with disabilities, persons in vulnerable situations and older persons.
With SOCIEUX+, we offer a demand-driven technical assistance facility which supports the creation of inclusive social protection systems and employment and labour policies.
With our Global Gateway strategy we invest in education with a life-long learning approach and promote good nutrition, healthy diets, and food security.
The world requires more solidarity and multilateral cooperation to deal with environmental, digital and demographic challenges, ensuring just transitions. The upcoming World Social Summit in Doha is crucial in this effort, serving as a forum where social issues take centre stage, which is key for restoring trust, cohesion, and solidarity.
We welcome the fact that we were able to agree on the Political Declaration already two months ahead of the Summit as well as the fact that it is anchored in human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the ILO's Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, and addresses major inequalities and transformative challenges in the world.
Mr. Katoanga, what are your expectations when it comes to the follow-up of the World Social Summit in Doha, including on the participation of specialized agencies?
Where do you think a renewed global dialogue, as stated in the report, is most needed to ensure social progress?
Thank you Chair.