Every year, on October 17th, the global community comes together for the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. The United Nations initiated this observance to bring attention to the critical issue of poverty, a pervasive challenge that affects many around the world.
This day serves as a reminder and a revitalization of our shared endeavor to completely eradicate poverty in all its manifestations and to bring about a dignified life for those less fortunate. Each annual event focuses on a specific theme, targeting different facets of poverty while advocating for the integration of these struggling groups into the broader socio-economic fabric.
History of International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
The observance of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty (IDEP) dates back to October 17, 1987, before it was officially declared by the United Nations in 1992. The inception of this observance revolves around a massive gathering in Paris at the Trocadéro, the site of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. Over a hundred thousand individuals united on this day to acknowledge the victims of severe poverty, violence, and hunger.
The catalyst for this event and the broader movement was Father Joseph Wresinski, a passionate advocate for the disenfranchised and the founder of the International Movement ATD Fourth World. Wresinski introduced a memorial stone bearing a significant message: “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.” This powerful declaration spurred various groups globally to unite in the fight against destitution.
A few years after Wresinski’s passing, in 1992, the United Nations formalized October 17 as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty with the UN General Assembly Resolution 47/196.
In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals set in 2015, the worldwide community committed to “end poverty in all its forms everywhere” by the year 2030. Therefore, the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty plays a crucial role in supporting global initiatives to reach this milestone.
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty Timeline
Father Joseph Wresinski's Appeal
Father Joseph Wresinski, a priest and advocate for the poor, appeals to the French government to recognize and act against the poverty and social exclusion faced by citizens.
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
The United Nations officially declares October 17th as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, adapting the resolution 47/196.
Stand Up Against Poverty
The United Nations launches the 'Stand Up Against Poverty' Campaign from 16-18 October.
Adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals
The UN Member States adopt the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, including Goal 1 to “End poverty in all its forms everywhere”.
Ideas to Celebrate International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
Raise Awareness Via Social Media
Use your social media accounts to spread the word about poverty, presenting pieces of data, real-life stories, and significant insights about the issue. This could change your audience's perception and promote understanding of poverty and its impact.
Poverty Eradication Workshop
Consider coordinating a workshop or talk where experts discuss poverty's causes, effects, and possible solutions. You can invite professionals from charities, social care, or education to share their insights and increase awareness.
Donate to Poverty Alleviation Organizations
Make a financial gift to trustworthy groups whose focus is eradicating poverty. Even the smallest gifts can make a big difference in providing vital resources.
Initiate a Food or Clothing Drive
Get your local community involved by organizing a donation drive. Items collected can then support those in need or enhance the resources of local community shelters.
Volunteer Your Time
Many organizations tackling poverty need helping hands. Offer to support them by contributing your time and talents to their projects or events.
Watch and Share Documentaries on Poverty
Broaden your horizons and those of others by watching documentaries about poverty. Host a film night or event to facilitate rich discussions and greater empathy.
7 Interesting Facts About Eradication of Poverty
The Cost of Eradication
Jeffrey Sachs, one of the world’s leading experts on economic development, suggests we would need about $175 billion a year for two decades to make extreme poverty a thing of the past. This is less than 1% of the total global income.
Dropping Poverty Rates
In an encouraging trend, only 10% of the world's population was found to be living in extreme poverty in 2015, down from 36% in 1990.
China’s Success Story
China has demonstrated impressive success in poverty reduction, raising over 800 million people above the poverty line in the last four decades.
Sustainable Development Goals
The first goal set by the United Nations in its Sustainable Development agenda is to completely eliminate poverty across the globe by 2030.
Impact of Education
Any additional year of schooling cuts down the chances of an adolescent boy getting involved in conflict by 20%.
The Power of Social Safety Nets
Thanks to social safety net programs, 36% of the world's severely indigent people are being lifted above the poverty line.
Rural Poverty
A significant majority of the global poor, approximately 80%, live in rural areas, and a vast number of them rely on farming.
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty FAQs
Next International Day for the Eradication of Poverty Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | October 17th | Tuesday |
| 2024 | October 17th | Thursday |
| 2025 | October 17th | Friday |
| 2026 | October 17th | Saturday |
| 2027 | October 17th | Sunday |
| What is the pattern? | Every October 17th | |
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty Word Search
- Eradication
- Poverty
- International
- Support
- Solidarity
- Charitable