As the United Nations celebrates its 80th anniversary under the theme “UN@80: Catalyzing Change,” the International Federation for Family Development (IFFD) actively participated in this year’s High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), reinforcing its longstanding commitment to family-centered development and inclusive policy innovation.
IFFD’s written statement, officially submitted to the ECOSOC High-Level Segment, emphasized the urgent need to place families at the heart of development strategies in order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Titled “Catalyzing Change Through Family-Centered Development: Advancing Inclusive, Science-Based Solutions to Leave No One Behind,” the statement outlines concrete policy recommendations rooted in evidence, lived experience, and strategic foresight.
“Families are not just beneficiaries of development—they are agents of change,” the statement reads, urging Member States to integrate family impact assessments into national and international policymaking. Key proposals included investment in early childhood development, mental health support for caregivers, youth empowerment, and closing the digital divide.
In parallel with its written contribution, IFFD actively participated in key thematic sessions during the HLPF, including discussions on urban policy and the presentation of the 2025 World Social Report: A New Policy Consensus to Accelerate Social Progress. These events highlighted the role of inclusive cities and the importance of care systems, digital equity, and multilevel governance to enhance social cohesion.
IFFD also underscored the findings of its recent expert consultations and global Congress in Cebu, Philippines, which convened more than 1,500 parents and young leaders from 51 countries. These initiatives have collectively reaffirmed the organization’s call for a renewed social contract that supports families in their caregiving, educational, and economic roles.
“Our mission remains clear: we must ensure that global recovery and future development are people-centered, family-responsive, and built on resilient support systems,” said Dr. Jose Alejandro Vázquez Alarcón, IFFD’s Director of International Relations.
As preparations continue for the 2025 World Social Summit in Doha, IFFD calls on the international community to mainstream family policy across all sectors, invest in disaggregated data and family science, and empower families as partners in development. “UN@80 is a turning point,” said Dr. Vázquez. “Let it be remembered as the year we catalyzed meaningful, lasting change—through and for families.”
