International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

October 17, Friday

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is observed annually on October 17 and aims to raise awareness about the scale of poverty worldwide, as well as to call for collective action to eradicate it. This day reminds us of the importance of social justice, equal opportunities, and human dignity for all people, regardless of their social status.

History
The holiday was established at the initiative of the United Nations in 1992. Its origin is linked to an event that took place on October 17, 1987, in Paris, when more than 100,000 people gathered at the Trocadéro to honor the victims of poverty, hunger, and violence. A plaque was installed at this location with an inscription calling for the fight against poverty and the protection of human rights.

Purpose
The main goal of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is to draw the world community’s attention to the suffering of people living in poverty and to remind everyone of the need for concrete actions to improve their lives.

Main objectives

* Promote the realization of human rights for all, especially for those living in poverty.
* Improve education, healthcare, and social protection in vulnerable communities.
* Support sustainable economic development and equal access to resources.
* Draw the attention of governments, organizations, and citizens to issues of inequality and social exclusion.

How it is observed

* Organizations and schools hold information campaigns, lectures, and exhibitions.
* In some countries, solidarity actions, charitable events, and fundraising for those in need are organized.
* People discuss ways to reduce poverty, promote sustainable development, and ensure social justice.

Symbolism
One of the symbols of this day is the commemorative plaque in Paris, installed at the Human Rights Plaza, where the first action against poverty took place. Similar plaques are now placed in many countries around the world as a sign of unity in the fight against poverty.

Interesting fact
Each year’s theme focuses on a specific aspect of the fight against poverty, such as human rights, gender equality, social protection, or climate change affecting living standards.

Suitable image
A suitable image for this day could be a photograph of people joining hands in solidarity, an image of the Earth as a symbol of unity, or graphics emphasizing equality and support—such as hands reaching out to each other.

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty in other years

2021 October 17, Sunday
2022 October 17, Monday
2023 October 17, Tuesday
2024 October 17, Thursday
2026 October 17, Saturday

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

October 17, Friday

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty in other years

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty in other countries