CIVICUS, a global alliance of civil society organisations and activists, is actively engaged in discussions surrounding the upcoming Summit of the Future. In a recent interview, Julie Murray, Advocacy Advisor at Save the Children International, shared insights on the significance of the summit and the role of civil society in shaping its outcomes.
The Summit of the Future, scheduled to take place in September, will bring together world leaders at the United Nations to adopt the Pact for the Future. This pact, along with its two annexes – the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations, aims to address pressing global challenges and renew trust in multilateralism. Civil society, academia, and the private sector have all contributed to the draft of the pact, emphasizing the importance of commitments to the environment, human rights, social justice, and the protection of civic space.
During the summit, states will officially adopt the outcome documents, outlining commitments on sustainable development, peace and security, technology and innovation, youth empowerment, and global governance. The summit will serve as a platform for dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders to address shared challenges and work towards a more sustainable and equitable future.
The development of the outcome documents has been a collaborative effort, with negotiations led by co-facilitators from various countries. While civil society has had limited official involvement in the negotiations, efforts have been made to incorporate their perspectives and priorities. Save the Children has actively engaged in the process, providing inputs, participating in consultations, and advocating for the inclusion of children’s rights in the outcome documents.
Children’s rights have been a key focus for Save the Children, with a push for substantive language on children’s issues in the sustainable development chapter of the pact. Children, as a significant portion of the global population, face challenges related to conflict, violence, and climate change, making it essential to prioritize their needs and rights in policy discussions and decision-making processes.
Civil society’s role in the summit extends beyond the negotiation process, with a focus on monitoring, advocacy, and accountability. It is crucial for civil society to continue to amplify the voices of marginalized communities, hold states accountable for their commitments, and ensure that the outcomes of the summit are implemented effectively.
As the Summit of the Future approaches, the involvement of children’s voices and perspectives will be crucial in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future. By linking the summit’s outcomes to existing frameworks such as the 2030 Agenda and international human rights law, the potential for meaningful impact and positive change can be maximized.
In conclusion, the Summit of the Future presents a unique opportunity for global leaders to come together and address pressing challenges facing our world. With active engagement from civil society, including organisations like Save the Children, there is hope for bold commitments, inclusive decision-making, and a more equitable future for all.