Unequal Worlds #15
If you’re looking for insight into the global crisis of inequality, this episode of Unequal Worlds is a must-listen. Host Wesley Maraire interviews Katja Hujo, a senior research coordinator at the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development, about their flagship report, “Crisis of Inequality, Shifting Power for a New Social Contract.” Hujo shares her thoughts on the systemic and structural challenges that perpetuate inequality and proposes eco-social policies as a way forward.
The episode covers everything from the need for a new social contract to the contentious inclusion of a goal on reducing inequality in Agenda 2030. Hujo also discusses the report’s proposed seven principles for building a new ecological social contract, which are based on the analysis of past and present social contracts. Along the way, she touches on many topics related to inequality, including citizen engagement, political processes, and community-level processes.
The conversation also explores some of the challenges associated with implementing these ideas and the need for a deliberative process at different levels. The report calls for global citizens to hold governments and other actors accountable for their promises and commitments to ensure progress is made towards a new eco-social contract that prioritises justice and sustainability. If you’re interested in learning more about this important issue, be sure to check out this thought-provoking episode of Unequal Worlds.