The world observes October 17
every year as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. With this
observance, the UN aims to highlight the plight of the poor and impoverished.
The day is a global call to do more in eradicating global poverty and hunger.
Here is a look at some of the ongoing initiatives and the progress made.
Origins
The first commemoration of the
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty can be traced back to 1987 in
France. It was started by Father Joseph Wresinski, founder of the International
Movement ATD Fourth World. He unveiled a memorial for the victims of extreme
poverty and hunger at the Human Rights and Liberties Plaza at Trocadero in
Paris. On December 22, 1992 member states of the UNGA committed to unite
against chronic poverty and hunger. They passed a resolution marking October 17
as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.
Importance
A research study conducted by the
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) revealed that over 1.3 billion
people live in poverty. They represent nearly a quarter of the world
population. Extreme poverty is where people are deprived of basic human
necessities like food, safe drinking water, sanitation, and shelter.
Observing this day is the UN’s way
of reminding world leaders to renew their commitments towards combating
poverty. It is also a call to action for the general public. Every year the UN
observes this day with a unique theme. One of the theme says ‘Acting together
to achieve social and environmental justice for all’.
Activities
Much of the world remains unaware
of the plight of the impoverished. Humanitarian groups and NGOs run social
media campaigns to spread awareness. A letter about our collective commitment
to eradicate poverty is sent on this day by leading humanitarians to prominent
world leaders. Several conferences and debates on this subject are organized.
The objective of many of these discussions is to measure progress and assess
what more must be done.
Cause Of Many Social Evils
Eradication of global poverty is a
pressing issue, now considered on par with climate change. Impoverished
communities face hunger and malnourishment. Poorer world regions are also
wrought with civil tensions and political instability.
Long-Term Goals
UN Member States adopted 17
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015. One of these is to reduce world
poverty from 10.1% in 2015 to 3% in 2030. As a part of the initiatives the UN
urges its members to generate employment opportunities and create sustained
economic growth.
This needs much international cooperation and coordinated efforts from all nations.