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UN Chief Calls for Global 'New Social Contract'

Margaret Besheer

   NEW YORK - The U.N. secretary-general called Saturday for a new social
   contract and global deal to create equal opportunities for all in an
   address on the birthday of late anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela.

   "A new social contract within societies will enable young people to
   live in dignity, will ensure women have the same prospects and
   opportunities as men, and will protect the sick, the vulnerable and
   minorities of all kinds," Antonio Guterres said in a keynote speech to
   South Africa's Nelson Mandela Foundation on what would have been the
   late president's 102nd birthday.

   Guterres said people want social and economic systems that work for
   everyone, and a say in the decisions that affect their lives.

   "They want their human rights and fundamental freedoms to be
   respected," the U.N. chief said. "The new social contract, between
   governments, people, civil society, business and more, must integrate
   employment, sustainable development and social protection, based on
   equal rights and opportunities for all."

   His address was delivered virtually from New York, due to the
   coronavirus pandemic. South Africa has more than 325,000 confirmed
   cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus.

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