(ANS – New York) – The 53rd Session of the Commission for Social Development (CSocD53) take place from 4-13 February 2015 at United Nations Headquarters in New York. The priority theme for the 2015-2016 review and policy cycle was “Rethinking and strengthening social development in the contemporary world”. Salesians also gave a contribution.

As is customary, the Commission was preceded by a Civil Society Forum gathering NGO representatives from around the world to address and critique the Commission’s two year focus on empowerment. Civil society representatives added their vision and recommendations to assist with the promotion of the core goals of social development in the context of an inclusive and transformative post-2015 agenda.

The Civil Society Declaration emphasized many of the core values and concerns of the participating Civil Society organizations: addressing inequalities and poverty, human rights, accountability, means of implementation and transparency. Development must secure a “Life of Dignity for All” rather than focus on narrow economic outcomes that potentially could exacerbate the inequalities and deprivations. Participation, empowerment and full involvement of the most vulnerable populations are necessary elements in creating a sustainable world.

Through the representative of the Salesians at the UN, Rev. Thomas Brennan, SDB, the issue of inequalities was addressed in a written statement for the Commission. “A process of structural reform leading to inclusion rather than marginalization begins when societies address the social, psychological and political effects that flow from great economic inequalities. Economic marginalization limits peoples’ access to education, housing and meaningful work all of which is an affront to their human dignity. Additionally, excessive economic disparity between individuals and peoples prevents societies from guaranteeing social justice, equity, advancement of the common good, and social and international peace.” (from the Salesian intervention)

Additionally, Fr. Brennan organized a side event sponsored by the Salesians for the Commission: “People First: Community Responses to Human Trafficking”. The interactive panel discussion highlighted the realities of human trafficking and modern day slavery and why this should matter to all of us. The event was co-sponsored by the NGO Committee to Stop Trafficking in Persons, the Good Shepherd Sisters, and the Sisters of Norte Dame de Namur.

Published 13/02/2015