The Sultanate of Oman reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to achieving comprehensive and sustainable social development, guided by a national approach that places the citizen at its core as both the driver and ultimate beneficiary of progress.

This was the message delivered in a speech by Ambassador Omar Alkathiri, Oman’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, during Oman’s participation in the 64th session of the Commission for Social Development.

The session was held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, under the theme “Fostering Social Development and Social Justice through Coordinated, Equitable, and Inclusive Policies”.

Ambassador Alkathiri said Oman’s commitment to sustainable social development aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals and  Oman Vision 2040, which prioritises enhancing societal well-being, ensuring equal opportunities, and protecting the most vulnerable segments of the population.

He added  that Oman has implemented an integrated suite of policies and programmes designed to strengthen social protection. Key initiatives include the enactment of the Social Protection Law and the Labour Law, as well as the establishment of the Social Protection Fund as a unified umbrella system.

These measures, he said, ensure comprehensive coverage and the sustainability of social benefits for all members of society. Additionally, the Job Security System has been instituted to protect individuals affected by workforce reductions.

The Ambassador explained that Oman is transitioning toward a new phase of sustainable development through a strategic framework focused on expanding economic diversification, pursuing comprehensive development across all governorates, and cultivating a skilled national workforce. These efforts collectively reinforce the nation’s social protection infrastructure.

He highlighted that Oman has launched several pivotal national programmes, including the National Employment Programme, which seeks to generate opportunities for job seekers; the National Programme for Economic Diversification, aimed at broadening the national production base; and the National Programme for Financial Sustainability and Development of the Financial Sector. He noted that Oman ranked first in the Gulf region in establishing a comprehensive sustainable finance framework for the public sector, financing environmental projects to accelerate the realisation of Oman Vision 2040.

The Ambassador affirmed that Oman places particular emphasis on enhancing the efficiency of social spending and improving the quality of essential services—especially in education, health, and social housing. This focus is complemented by ongoing development of government support programs, all of which contribute to strengthening social stability, promoting inclusion, and achieving sustainable growth.

He reiterated Oman’s dedication to continued collaboration with international partners and to supporting UN efforts to advance comprehensive social development, promote social justice and build more equitable and sustainable societies for present and future generations.

In conclusion, he noted that the session serves as a vital platform for sharing expertise and enhancing international cooperation in the fields of social development, social justice and inclusion.