Saudi Arabia launches the Global Quality of Life Index in Davos
In a strategic move reflecting the growing role of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in shaping international standards for sustainable development, the Kingdom launched the "Global Quality of Life Index" in partnership with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), as part of the activities of the World Economic Forum held in Davos.
A global initiative with an ambitious Saudi vision
This launch is the culmination of the Kingdom's tireless efforts to improve the quality of life for its citizens, a key pillar of Vision 2030. This initiative builds upon the accumulated experience of the Quality of Life Program, one of the Vision's key initiatives, which has successfully transformed the concepts of social well-being, the urban environment, and cultural and recreational activities within the Kingdom. Through this index, Saudi Arabia aims to share its successful experience and contribute to standardizing global benchmarks for measuring the well-being of nations.
Beyond GDP
The significance of this index lies in its timing and content, coinciding with escalating global discussions about the inadequacy of traditional economic indicators, such as GDP, in providing a complete picture of societal realities. The new global index aims to:
- Providing accurate and reliable data on quality of life in different countries.
- Focus on human, social, and environmental factors instead of just financial figures.
- To help decision-makers and governments formulate more effective and sustainable development policies.
Strategic partnership with the United Nations
The partnership with the United Nations is a pivotal step that lends the index broad international credibility. Both parties are working to develop a scientific methodology for data collection and analysis, enabling countries to compare their performance and identify development gaps. This collaboration reflects the Kingdom's commitment to supporting the international agenda for sustainable development and the UN's goals, particularly those related to sustainable cities and communities.
The importance of the event in Davos
Choosing Davos as the platform for launching this index carries profound significance, placing the issue of "quality of life" on the table for the world's economic and political leaders. This event underscores the Kingdom's transformation from a consumer of international standards to a contributor and influencer in shaping them, thereby enhancing its soft power and leading position in international forums.
