The global commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) recognises the importance of leaving no one behind. Yet, despite progress in several areas, systemic exclusion and discrimination against marginalised groups—based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, migration status and other identity factors—continue to hinder the realisation of equitable and inclusive societies.
These challenges persist across the globe, manifesting an unequal access to education, healthcare, employment, and political representation. Structural inequalities and social injustices disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, reinforcing cycles of poverty, exclusion, and social fragmentation. Addressing these issues is vital to building a world where all individuals can fully participate and benefit from social, economic, and political systems.
The World Day of Social Justice offers a crucial opportunity to amplify the call for inclusive policies that ensure equality and social cohesion. Club de Madrid’s Shared Societies Programme champions the idea of creating societies where all individuals, regardless of identity, are treated with dignity and have equal access to opportunities. The initiative promotes the principles of inclusion, non-discrimination, and participation as essential pillars for fostering social cohesion and inclusion and achieving sustainable development.
We look forward to welcoming you to this conversation.
Themes for discussion:
- Understanding how race, ethnicity, religion, and other identity markers intersect with structural inequalities.
- Sharing examples of policies that successfully address identity-based exclusion, such as inclusive education, equitable healthcare, and anti-discrimination laws.
- Strategies to ensure the representation and participation of excluded groups in decision-making processes.
Speakers:
- Prime Minister George Papandreou (2009-2011), Member of Club de Madrid
- Ms. Shaista Pervaiz Malik, Member National Assembly Pakistan and Country Ambassador of Women Political Leaders
- Mr. Ali Imran, Lawyer, Senior Expert in International Cooperation and Development
- Mr. Rakesh Karna, Executive Director, Centre for Policy Studies and Governance (C4PG)
- Mr. Francisco Segovia (facilitator), Programme Officer – Club de Madrid
