Work, Wealth and Wellbeing: A Collective Reimagining of Social Cohesion

The UK Baha'i Office of Public Affairs

A collective exploration of the new ways to conceptualise our work, wealth, and wellbeing for a happier, healthier future.

Manchester Metropolitan University Business School

You're invited to contribute to a UK-wide conversation aimed at sparking a meaningful dialogue about the future of our society. We will have refreshments while we re-imagine these key concepts.<h3> The Current Landscape</h3>Collective wellbeing requires a conscious and continuous effort. Economic growth alone isn't enough to bring about the benefits we seek - "the types of societies we seek do not come about merely as a natural consequence of expanded access to material resources. Were this the case, the world’s wealthiest nations would be models of equality, justice, sustainability, and social cohesion.” 1When viewed this way, work, community, and youth take on new dimensions in society.<ul><li>Work: The value of work in individual and collective life cannot be overstated. It can be a way to express our passions and skills for the common good—a source of social contribution and a way to support ourselves and others.</li><li>Community: Without community, placing ourselves within a broader societal whole becomes abstract. Community is essential for cultivating social duty, mutual support, and forming lasting bonds that go beyond individual or family ties. These wider relationships are integral to our physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.</li><li>Youth: Young people are vital intergenerational connectors. Those younger look to them as role models, while those older are inspired by their idealism, creativity, and energy. Youth are mature enough to take on responsibility and are deeply invested in the future, making them uniquely positioned to shape the worlds of both work and community.</li></ul><h3> Our Approach</h3>This project is a series of inclusive roundtables happening across the UK, bringing together a diverse cross-section of society, from local communities to policymakers.At the heart of this initiative is a process of collective truth-seeking. The dialogues will address three core questions:<ul><li>What are the current perceptions of work, wealth, and wellbeing?</li><li>How can we collectively reimagine these concepts?</li><li>What practical steps are needed to lead us to the new socio-economic reality we've imagined?</li></ul>Participants will reflect on these questions in small groups designed to promote trust, unity, and shared purpose.<blockquote> </blockquote><blockquote>Baha’i International Community, statement on “Strengthening Solidarity: Social Cohesion as a Driver of Development,” 3 February 2025</blockquote>