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In the face of rapid technological change, climate change and geopolitical fragmentation, ongoing transformations have the potential to either strengthen social inclusion or worsen exclusions. The World Social Report 2026 is based on the central premise that while transformations are inevitable, exclusions are not.
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Department of Economic and Social Affairs
Economic Analysis
This paper aims to identify the defining structural characteristics of long-term African LDCs and provides some policy recommendations at the domestic and international level essential for enabling these countries to overcome these obstacles and achieve sustainable graduation pathways.
Preferential market access has been one of the most important forms of special and differential treatment (S&DT) for LDCs. However, its limited success so far, and the reshaping of international trade call for a new generation of S&DT.
The World Social Report 2026, launching on 15th October 2026, delivers a clear message: while transformations are inevitable, the exclusions that accompany them are not. Exclusions are not only a social failure, but also an economic risk. When people are excluded from education, decent work, health care, digital access and decision-making, societies lose more than fairness. They lose skills, productivity, trust, resilience and growth. Inclusive societies are more productive, resilient, and prosperous.
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This paper aims to identify the defining structural characteristics of long-term African LDCs and provides some policy recommendations at the domestic and international level essential for enabling these countries to overcome these obstacles and achieve sustainable graduation pathways.
In the face of rapid technological change, climate change and geopolitical fragmentation, ongoing transformations have the potential to either strengthen social inclusion or worsen exclusions. The World Social Report 2026 is based on the central premise that while transformations are inevitable, exclusions are not.
Preferential market access has been one of the most important forms of special and differential treatment (S&DT) for LDCs. However, its limited success so far, and the reshaping of international trade call for a new generation of S&DT.
The Middle East conflict has dealt yet another major shock to a world economy already grappling with the lingering effects of recent crises, heightened geopolitical and trade tensions, and shrinking fiscal space. A severe global downturn has so far been avoided, but growth remains subdued and risks are substantial.
