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Section Social Accounting

Social Justice and Sustainability: towards a more Inclusive Development Model

Vol. 21 No. 1 (2026): February:

Basima Nyaz Mohsin (1), Ali Ayed Nasir (2)

(1) Economics Department, Faculty of Administration and Economics, University of Kerbala, Iraq
(2) Economics Department, Faculty of Administration and Economics, University of Kerbala, Iraq
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Abstract:

General Background: Sustainable development has become a global framework since 1987, yet often neglects social justice's critical role in achieving comprehensive development. Specific Background: Contemporary development faces challenges including economic inequality, disproportionate climate impacts on vulnerable groups, inadequate social policies, and complex crises affecting marginalized populations. Knowledge Gap: The integration of social justice dimensions—distributive, procedural, and recognizable—into development frameworks remains insufficiently addressed in policy discourse. Aims: This article examines social justice and sustainable development interconnections, evaluates current challenges, and reviews global experiences to propose an inclusive development model. Results: Analysis reveals social justice as fundamental to sustainable development, with Sweden, Kenya, Egypt, and UAE demonstrating effective integration strategies. Novelty: The article proposes a comprehensive framework balancing economic, social, and environmental dimensions through six strategic components: strengthened social policies, legislative reforms, equitable resource distribution, diversity recognition, monitoring mechanisms, and international cooperation. Implications: Achieving 2030 Sustainable Development Goals requires systematic justice integration into policies to ensure societal cohesion, reduce inequality, and guarantee sustainable futures for current and future generations.
Keywords : Social Justice, Sustainable Development, Inclusive Development Model, Economic Inequality, Environmental Justice
Highlight :



  • Three justice dimensions enable equitable resource distribution and inclusive decision-making processes.

  • Climate crises disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, requiring environmental justice in development strategies.

  • Strong social policies and legislative reforms reduce inequality and enhance societal stability

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