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Prof Yunus Calls for "World of Three Zeros" at G20 Summit
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has called on world leaders to create a "World of Three Zeros"—a world free from poverty, unemployment, and net carbon emissions. His powerful call was delivered in a video message at the G20 Social Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Friday.
The summit's inaugural session featured Yunus's message, followed by a keynote address from Janja Lula, the First Lady of Brazil. A key moment during the event was Bangladesh’s recognition as the first country to join the newly launched Global Alliance against Poverty and Hunger, alongside Brazil.
In his address, Prof. Yunus set an inspiring tone for the summit, which focused on "Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet." He urged global leaders to take decisive action for a fairer, more resilient future. He also congratulated Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for establishing the G20 Global Alliance Against Poverty and Hunger, emphasizing Bangladesh's pivotal role as a founding member of the alliance.
Launched under Brazil's G20 presidency, the alliance aims to unite global efforts in tackling hunger and poverty. Bangladesh was invited to contribute to three core pillars of the G20’s agenda this year: women’s empowerment, climate sustainability, and the fight against poverty and hunger.
Prof. Yunus highlighted Bangladesh's commitment to uplifting communities, fostering entrepreneurship, and advancing sustainable development. "No nation can shy away from doing its bit in redeeming shared responsibility," he asserted, emphasizing the need for trustworthy institutions and systems to restore global confidence.
In his call for transformation, Prof. Yunus stressed the importance of adopting a new mindset—one focused on reduced consumption and sustainability, crucial to achieving the vision of a "World of Three Zeros."
He concluded his remarks by inviting President Lula to visit Bangladesh to collaborate on innovative solutions to eradicate poverty and hunger.
At the event, MA Akmall Hossain Azad, Senior Secretary of Bangladesh's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, presented the nation’s commitment to integrated maternal and early childhood care. Sadia Faizunnesa, Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Brazil, and Jasim Uddin, Counsellor at the Embassy of Bangladesh, were also present.
The Global Alliance, now comprising 30 founding members, including UN agencies and international organizations, aims to unite global efforts in tackling poverty and hunger. Over 300 delegates, including ministers, senior officials, and dignitaries, attended the G20 Social Summit.