Statement by Deputy Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the United Nations Khrystyna Hayovyshyn at High-level Round Table 2 — Second World Summit for Social Development

5 November 2025, Doha

Mr. Chair, Excellencies,

Thirty years after the Copenhagen Declaration, we acknowledge that our shared commitments to social development remain as urgent as ever. Across the world, inequalities persist, fiscal pressures deepen, and social trust erodes — challenges that have only been magnified by conflict, climate change, and economic instability.

The Copenhagen vision was clear: social justice, equality, and inclusion are the foundation of sustainable peace and prosperity. Yet, the gaps in implementing this vision remain wide. Progress in reducing poverty or expanding social protection is often undone by crises — economic, environmental, or political. When one pillar of social development weakens, the others cannot hold.

Ukraine knows this reality firsthand. Our country continues to confront the human and social consequences of Russia’s war of aggression. But even under these conditions, we have learned that protecting people — their livelihoods, their rights, and dignity — is not only a moral duty but it is a pathway to national resilience.

First, sustaining social protection and essential services during crisis requires both domestic reform and international solidarity. Without accessible financing, countries in conflict or recovery cannot protect their most vulnerable citizens or invest in inclusive growth.

Second, social inclusion must remain at the center of development. Rebuilding societies requires empowering those most affected — displaced persons, people with disabilities, and families torn apart by war or disaster. Social protection and employment policies must move beyond compensation to genuine reintegration and participation.

Third, we must restore trust in governance. People need to see that institutions work for them — that benefits reach those in need, that opportunities are fair, and that no group is left behind. Digital innovation, transparency, and accountability can make this possible even in challenging contexts.

As Chair of the 64th Session of the Commission for Social Development which will take place in February next year, Ukraine places strong emphasis on follow up and review of the outcome of the Doha Summit and we invite Member States to join these efforts. The Doha Declaration is not a destination but the beginning. Sustained commitment and concrete action of Member States are needed to achieve progress. 

Thank you.