United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia

Social Development

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.

Population and Development

The Arab population stood at 363.3 million in 2012, forming 5.1 per cent of the world population, and is projected to reach 604 million by 2050. In addition to rapid population growth, the region is characterized by a sizeable youth bulge, and high urbanization rates.

Social Dimensions of the Post-2015 Development Agenda

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are expected to become the basis of the new development paradigm after the conclusion of the Millennium Development Goals in 2015.

Civic Engagement and Participatory Development

Civil society organizations are taking on a growing role in Arab societies. They mobilized citizens during the Arab uprisings and have been prominent in debate on reform. By acting as intermediaries between the State and citizens, they have proven to be powerful advocates of the rights of the most vulnerable groups

Housing and Urban Development

Adequate housing is central to a decent life, and is recognized as such in several international human rights instruments. Without proper housing, access to other necessities, such as adequate food and water, clothing, medical care, physical protection, education and employment may be compromised.

International Migration

The Arab region hosts one of the largest and fastest-growing migrant populations in the world. In 2013, the region hosted 30.3 million international migrants (8.24 per cent of the total population).

Social Inclusion and Disability

Persons with disabilities constitute one of the largest and most marginalized social groups in the Arab region. They have limited access to education, social protection and work, and are at greater risk of health problems and poverty than other social groups.

Social Justice

Arab countries face pressing social justice challenges, including persistent poverty and inequality, a lack of basic goods and services, high unemployment, discrimination against women, unequal treatment of persons with disabilities, forced displacement and occupation.

Social Protection and Employment

Decent work is essential for a life in dignity, and formal employment is a key for obtaining access to pension funds, health insurance, unemployment support, transfers related to maternity and disability, and other forms of social protection.

Youth

The 15-24 age group makes up almost one fifth of the total population in Arab countries. Such a young population has the potential to accelerate development, but it faces significant hurdles in the form of massive unemployment and limited participation in decision-making.