From UN DESA’s World Economic Situation and Prospects report to the World Economic Forum in Davos, growing inequalities have been the focus of numerous high-level events and discussions. But as renowned economists and Heads of States battle it out on debate podiums, is there anything that you can do to reduce the inequalities between people?

International fora are attaching increasing attention to inequality, as governments and leaders increasingly realize that inequality is a significant barrier to eradicating poverty, maintaining global economic growth and achieving sustainable development for all. That is why reducing inequalities is a central concept in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, expressed in Sustainable Development Goal 10, but also in the principle of leaving no one behind.

This February, UN Member states and agencies, civil society organization, private sector representatives and experts from all over the world will gather in New York for the UN Commission for Social Development. The Commission will discuss ways of addressing inequalities and improving social inclusion through fiscal, wage and social protection policies.

The Commission will examine social protection policies that have proved to be effective at the national level, in a coherent and integrated way.

You too can get involved and have your say to ensure that vulnerable groups are protected and not left behind. On 15 February 2019, the Commission will hold a Civil Society Forum at the UN Headquarters in New York. Non-governmental organizations have long been a powerful voice in the debate on inequalities and this will be their chance to advocate for social protection for all. See how your organization can participate here: https://ngosocdev.org/

Stand up for inclusion! Join the Civil Society Forum, follow the Commission through the live webcast (webtv.un.org) and join the discussion on social media, using #CSocD57.