This 63rd Commission For Social Development side-event will explore how inclusive participation can serve as a cornerstone of vibrant, equitable, and cohesive communities. Inclusive participation is needed more than ever to counter the rise of exclusionary rhetoric that can contribute to divisions within communities. Participation is not merely a means to achieve social goals but an end in itself—enabling individuals to contribute to decisions that directly affect their lives while fostering a sense of belonging, empowerment, and mutual trust. Through participatory processes, communities can develop more accurate diagnoses of social needs, co-design welfare systems, and evaluate their impact. This ensures that welfare policies are responsive, equitable, and transparent, while also enhancing accountability and reducing corruption. Participation is a form of enabling social welfare that enhances both community and individual well-being. By involving diverse voices, it strengthens social cohesion, empowers citizens, and builds trust in public institutions. The co-design of welfare systems by citizens, civil society organizations, and private sector actors ensures that these systems are responsive to growing concerns such as the cost-of-living crisis, healthcare, and education. Participation reaffirms that social welfare is a central pillar of sustainable development, rather than a residual concern.
The side-event event will highlight:
- The transformative potential of participation as a tool for achieving social welfare and inclusion.
- The role of local administrations in fostering participatory processes that reflect community priorities and ensure equitable access.
- Strategies for addressing barriers to participation, particularly for vulnerable groups, through inclusive design, accountability mechanisms, and digital innovation.
To check the event page: Click here.
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