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International Day for Eradication of Poverty

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.