International Day for the Eradication of Poverty: History, significance, theme, and all you need to know

One of the major issues that the world faces on a global scale is poverty which manifests in hunger and malnutrition, leading to limited access to education and other basic services and social discrimination. Across the globe, close to 44 million people are presently living in poverty. In order to address this issue and draw attention to the global issue of poverty, a day has been dedicated as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

Observed every year on October 17, the day aims to create awareness related to poverty and violations of human rights on the basis of people's financial and cultural backgrounds.

According to the United Nations, the theme for the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty has been set as “Decent Work and Social Protection: Putting Dignity in Practice for All.” The theme draws on first-hand testimonials showing that those trapped in extreme poverty often work long, gruelling hours in dangerous, unregulated conditions but still cannot earn enough income to support themselves and their families.

The theme focuses on the need for universal access to decent work and social protection as a means to uphold human dignity for all.

The history of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty dates back to October 17, 1987. On this date back in 1987, thousands of people gathered at the Trocadéro in Paris, proclaiming that poverty is a violation of human rights, and affirming the need to come together to ensure that these rights are respected.

Since that day, people from all walks of life and backgrounds have been coming together every year on October 17 to renew their commitment and show their solidarity with those suffering from poverty.

In December 1992, the General Assembly declared that October 17 be observed as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

This year marks the 31st anniversary of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. It holds major significance considering the rising poverty in the world. It not only aims to respect the poor sections of society but also to recognise their struggles.