THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL (DG) of the International Labour Organization, Gilbert F. Houngbo, is set to launch the first edition of the ILO’s new flagship report on social justice during next week’s 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level week.
The study, titled “The state of social justice: A work in progress,” is the first of its kind review of how the world is faring on social justice, based on key indicators and new findings. It provides a crucial insight into the state of social justice, equity, and inclusion during a week when world leaders will be assessing global progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Director-General, who will be in New York from 22 to 27 September, will also attend the opening of the UNGA, and he will take part in the SDG Moment, an interactive panel for leaders to discuss progress on the SDGs and to identify ways to close gaps that exist. Houngbo will also take part in the Global Education Forum, and in the 2025 UN Private Sector Forum, which brings together CEOs, investors, heads of state and senior UN officials to explore how private capital can be mobilized for sustainable and inclusive development.
In addition, senior members of the ILO delegation at the UNGA will participate in a series of events, including roundtable discussions and events on women entrepreneurs in the Global South, Decent Work and the FIFA World Cup 2026, artificial intelligence and economic growth, and action for youth.
The 80th UNGA session, whose theme this year is Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights, comes at a time when the multilateral system is under strain, and when the world is not on track to achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
