Madam President,
I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of Norway, South Africa, Spain, and my own country, Brazil who together, are leading an initiative to combat inequality.
We appreciate the convening of this commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day under the theme: “It is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity.”
Today, we honor the enduring relevance of Nelson Mandela’s vision. Mandela understood that political freedom, while indispensable, is incomplete without human dignity, equal opportunity and social justice. His legacy challenges us to confront the structural inequalities that continue to divide societies, deny opportunities and weaken faith in institutions.
Poverty and inequality persist as defining challenges of our time. Across and within countries, persistent disparities in income, wealth and opportunity undermine social cohesion, fuel frustration and erode trust. They prevent the right to a decent life for millions of people and threaten the foundations of sustainable development and lasting peace.
Yet inequality is neither inevitable nor immutable.
Experience demonstrates that policy choices matter. Countries facing similar circumstances often produce different outcomes. When guided by evidence, political will and international cooperation, progress is possible and a more equitable and balanced society can flourish.
It is in this spirit that Brazil, Norway, South Africa and Spain have joined efforts to advance the establishment of an International Panel on Inequality under the auspices of the United Nations.
The Panel would seek to provide an independent, science-based and globally representative platform to organize, assess and synthesize the best available knowledge on inequality. It would monitor trends, analyze causes and consequences, identify knowledge gaps and assess policy options available to governments and the international community. By bringing together leading experts from different regions and disciplines, the Panel would help ensure that public debate and policymaking are informed by rigorous evidence and objective analysis.
Madam President,
As we celebrate Nelson Mandela today, let us reaffirm our determination to build societies that are more equitable, more just and more inclusive. Let us equip ourselves with the knowledge necessary to meet that challenge. And let us work together to ensure that the promise of dignity and opportunity becomes a reality for all.
It is still in our hands.
Thank you.