Social Development
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Despite progress on a number of human development indicators in ESCWA countries in recent decades, inequality, vulnerability and social exclusion have not decreased and the link between economic growth and social development remains weak. In many ESCWA countries, certain social groups such as persons with disabilities, informal workers and the poor often lack adequate protection and remain highly vulnerable, especially in times of conflict and crises. International migration and youth issues are not being tackled, and little has been done to include civil society in decision-making.
The Social Development Division (SDD) at ESCWA strives to: promote rights-based policies on social inclusion and protection, disability, housing and employment; mainstream population and development themes in policy-making; advocate for participatory development and civic engagement; and address the social dimension of the post-2015 United Nations agenda. It does so through normative and technical cooperation activities. More specifically, the division:
- Conducts social policy research and analysis, and monitors trends in the region
- Serves intergovernmental bodies
- Monitors the implementation of internationally agreed upon goals and plans of action, and the inclusive social development pillar of the post-2015 development agenda
- Serves as a regional social development platform for exchange of ideas and interregional contact
- Builds the capacity of member countries to implement policies leading to social justice
- Strengthens partnerships with other regional commissions, United Nations entities, international and regional organizations and civil society organizations.