International Day for the Eradication of Poverty: history, significance & 2023 theme

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty had its origins in Paris, France, in 1987

October 17th marks the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, a solemn occasion aimed at fostering understanding and dialogue between those ensnared by poverty and the broader society. This year, the global observance revolves around a theme that delves into the harsh realities of individuals grappling with extreme poverty.

Theme

The 2023 United Nations theme, "Decent Work and Social Protection: Putting dignity in practice for all," urges us to confront the testimonies that reveal how individuals toil in arduous, perilous conditions, yet fail to earn enough to secure a decent life for themselves and their families.

The call for universal access to decent work and social protection is a plea to safeguard human dignity for all. Decent work, as envisaged by this theme, is more than just a pay check; it encompasses empowering individuals, offering fair wages, ensuring safe working conditions, and, above all, recognizing the inherent value and humanity of every worker.

Universal social protection is equally indispensable, guaranteeing income security, with a pronounced focus on society's most vulnerable members.

History

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty had its origins in Paris, France, in 1987 when activists and leaders came together to address poverty-related issues. Father Joseph Wresinski, a French priest, and founder of the International Movement ATD Fourth World, played a pivotal role in initiating this day.

On October 17, 1987, he gathered thousands of people from all walks of life at the Trocadéro Human Rights Plaza in Paris to honor the victims of poverty and homelessness.

During this event, a commemorative stone, engraved with the following text, was unveiled: "Wherever men and women are condemned to live in extreme poverty, human rights are violated. To come together to ensure that these rights be respected is our solemn duty."

Significance

What lies at the heart of this year's theme is a rallying cry to our political leaders and policymakers to steer their decisions by the compass of human dignity. The focus is on preserving fundamental human rights and social justice, rather than prioritizing corporate profits.

It's a global plea for policies that protect the welfare of all workers, promoting a just economy that champions human and environmental well-being over financial gains.

Strong global partnerships, knitting together governments, businesses, and civil society organizations, are identified as the key to achieving equitable development and ensuring no one is excluded or left behind.

The 2023 observance prompts us to stand shoulder to shoulder with those enduring poverty, to genuinely listen to their daily struggles, and to renew our commitment to crafting an equitable world that grants every individual their inherent dignity.

In a world endowed with unparalleled economic development, technological prowess, and financial resources, the persistence of extreme poverty is not just an economic quandary but a moral outrage.

Poverty, as we understand it, is not limited to meager incomes; it's a multi-dimensional predicament that encompasses both the deprivation of income and the essential capabilities to live with dignity.

Issues

Those mired in poverty are confronted by a labyrinth of interrelated hardships that perpetuate their suffering. These include perilous work conditions, inadequate shelter, insufficient access to nutritious food, unequal access to justice, a paucity of political power, and limited access to healthcare.

On this International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, let us rekindle our commitment to transform these stark realities. In unity with people experiencing poverty, let us pledge to reshape our policies, our economies, and our societies so that every individual can live a life worthy of their inherent dignity. It's not just a dream; it's a global imperative.

The call for decent work and social protection is not merely a slogan; it's a resounding cry for justice and a better world for all. Let this day remind us of our collective responsibility to turn this vision into reality.