World Poverty Eradication Day : Why It Matters and How You Can Help

World Poverty Eradication Day: Why It Matters and How You Can Help

Poverty is one of the most urgent and complex challenges facing humanity today. According to the World Bank, more than 700 million people live in extreme poverty, surviving on less than $1.90 a day. Poverty affects not only income, but also health, education, social inclusion, and human rights.

To raise awareness and mobilize action against poverty, the United Nations observes October 17 as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. The day was first celebrated in 1987, when over 100,000 people gathered in Paris to honor the victims of poverty, hunger, and violence. Since then, the day has become a global platform for dialogue and solidarity between people living in poverty and society at large.

The theme for this year’s International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is “Decent Work and Social Protection: Putting Dignity in Practice for All”. The theme highlights the importance of providing decent work and social protection for all people, especially those who are trapped in precarious and exploitative working conditions. Decent work means work that is productive, fair, safe, and respectful of human dignity. Social protection means ensuring income security and access to essential services for everyone, especially the most vulnerable.

Decent work and social protection are not only human rights, but also key drivers of economic and social development. They can help reduce inequality, promote social justice, and foster inclusive growth. They can also empower people to escape poverty and participate in society as active citizens.

However, achieving decent work and social protection for all is not an easy task. It requires strong political will, effective policies, and adequate resources. It also requires global cooperation and partnership between governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and people living in poverty.

On this International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, let us join forces to end poverty in all its forms and dimensions. Let us listen to the voices and experiences of those who face poverty every day. Let us support their efforts to claim their rights and dignity. And let us work together to create a world where everyone can enjoy decent work and social protection.