Right to Development: A 2026 Perspective
The UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is the UN’s main body for coordinating global economic, social, and sustainable development policies.
The UN Right to Development is a human right affirming that every person and all peoples are entitled to participate in, contribute to, and benefit from economic, social, cultural, and political development.
The Right to Development must evolve from a primarily global economic, social, and sustainable principle into a holistic framework for peace, dignity, and shared global responsibility. Development today is inseparable from peacebuilding, digital inclusion, ecological balance, and intercultural understanding.
Development cannot be realised without peace, and peace cannot be sustained without equitable development.
The renewed right should explicitly affirm:
- Peaceful coexistence as a prerequisite for development
- Prevention of conflict through inclusive, participatory development
- Protection of human dignity in all development processes
Digital and Media Literacy as Core Development Rights
In 1986, digital life did not exist. In 2026, it shapes every aspect of human development.
The renewed right should include:
- Universal access to digital skills and safe digital environments
- Ethical use of technology
- Protection from digital exclusion, manipulation, and misinformation
Intercultural Dialogue and Human Solidarity
Development must strengthen the social fabric, not only economies.
The renewed right should emphasise:
- Dialogue across cultures, generations, and identities
- Respect for diversity as a source of resilience
- Shared responsibility for global wellbeing
Fair Global Governance and International Cooperation
The world needs a more balanced system of cooperation.
The renewed right should call for:
- Equitable participation of all states in global decision‑making
- Reduction of structural inequalities in trade, finance, and technology
- Stronger mechanisms for global solidarity in crises
Young people must be recognised, not only as beneficiaries but also as co-creators of development.
The renewed right should guarantee:
- Meaningful youth participation in shaping policies
- Access to education that integrates peace, digital literacy, and sustainability
- Support for youth-led innovation and reconciliation initiatives
