National Statement at the UN Commission for Social Development

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Thank you Chair! 

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, dear colleagues,

Let me begin by saying how glad I am to be back here in New York at the Commission for Social Development. And how nice it is to see so many familiar faces, many of whom I haven’t seen since the World Social Summit in Doha.

For a country like Sweden, which has a strong commitment to social development, it is great to be amongst partners and friends. Especially given the scale of the challenges: we see a world affected by multiple and interlinked crises. Extreme poverty, conflict and humanitarian crises impact billions around the world, and at the same time we see democratic backsliding and repeated human rights violations. The negative trend on equality and gender equality – and, for example, the rights for LGBTQ-persons – calls for increased international cooperation, not less.

Chair,

For Sweden, social development is rooted in equality and gender equality. We see these as powerful drivers of inclusive and sustainable growth. 

But, as you know, progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals remains slow and uneven. The three core themes of the Copenhagen Declaration, that were re-affirmed in the Doha declaration —elimination of poverty, full and productive employment and decent work for all, and social integration—are deeply interrelated and mutually reinforcing. Addressing them requires coordinated action across all policy areas.

As the Secretary-General's report makes clear, fragmented decision-making and siloed policies undermine our ability to deliver social justice. 

Sweden's approach to social development reflects this understanding and I will mention a few of our main areas. 

First, we have just recently adopted the most significant social policy reform our country has seen in decades—a new Social Services Act. It emphasizes preventive work and early intervention, aiming to support families and individuals before social issues escalate. 

By coordinating health, education, labour and social services at the local level, we are building more coherent and responsive support systems.

Second, we are investing in children and the fulfilment of the rights of the child. 

We are expanding accessible parental support measures and strengthening mental health services for young people—linking social services, schools and healthcare in an integrated approach. Parental support is a key tool in preventing placements into alternative care.

Third, we are working hard to ensure an accessible society for all. A new national action plan on disability policy is under development. This action plan will be an important step in the work to meet the Swedish disability policy goal with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability as its starting point. 

Disability policy affects all parts of society, and the action plan will guide efforts to promote equal living conditions and full participation in society for persons with disabilities.

Fourth, Sweden believes that employment is one of the most effective pathways out of poverty. Work provides not only income, but dignity, empowerment, and a sense of belonging. 

That is why we are committed to an employment-first approach—ensuring that labour market, education, and social protection policies are aligned to support people's transition into decent work.

Chair,

Beyond national efforts, Sweden remains a strong advocate for social development globally. Through our international development cooperation, we support initiatives that strengthen social protection systems, promote decent work, advance gender equality and increase access to sexual and reproductive health and rights for all. 

Let me also highlight our commitment to ending violence against children. This requires coordinated action across child protection, education, health, justice and social services. 

Sweden supports the Global Alliance led by the UN Special Representative on Violence Against Children and encourages all governments to strengthen their efforts. Protecting children from violence is not only a moral imperative—it is a foundation for sustainable development and peaceful societies.

Chair,

Translating the Doha Political Declaration into reality requires whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches—with political leadership, adequate financing, and meaningful participation of all stakeholders.

Sweden stands ready to work with all Member States to deliver social development and social justice for all.

Finally, I would also like to express our deep appreciation for the work of civil society organizations, whose tireless efforts are essential in promoting social development.

Thank you for your attention!