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Amongst a global community characterized by unprecedented levels of economic development, technology and financial resources, millions of individuals and families—especially women and children—remain living in extreme poverty. Unfortunately, this continues to be a moral failure globally and one which manifests itself in several ways, such as homelessness. It is not solely an economic issue, but rather a multidimensional phenomenon that encompasses a lack of both income and the basic capabilities to live in dignity. On October 17thpeople around the world recognize the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. This is a day that encourages us to reflect on the issue of extreme poverty, as well as celebrate the successes and agency of individuals and families living with extreme poverty.

 

The ability of people living in extreme poverty to contribute positively to solutions has been overlooked. They are not recognized as drivers of change, and their voices are not heard, especially by international bodies. This must change! The participation, knowledge, contributions, and experience of people living in poverty and those left behind must be valued, respected and reflected in our efforts to build an equitable and sustainable world in which there is social and environmental justice for all. For this reason, the United Nations designated October 17than international day. This year marks the 27th anniversary of the declaration by the General Assembly, in its resolution 47/196 of December 22, 1992. It also marks the 32nd anniversary of the Call to Action by Father Joseph Wresinski—which inspired the observance of the World Day for Overcoming Extreme Poverty, and its recognition by the United Nations.

 

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty has a long and fruitful history of ensuring that people with a lived experience at the grassroots are involved in its planning and celebration, especially around the day’s annual theme. In 2020 we celebrated the day under the theme “Acting together to achieve social and environmental justice for all.” This was chosen by individuals and families globally, living in or with a lived experience of poverty, who wished to highlight the multi-dimensionality of poverty and the fact that social and environmental justice are so inherently intertwined.  This theme recognized that social justice cannot be fully realized without aggressively rectifying environmental injustices. We,  as a global community, must take a holistic approach to addressing each if we are to achieve long term success.

 

In recognition of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, the United Nations, ATD4th World and their partners, including UNANIMA International, came together to host an online event. Broadcast online, the event hosted speakers and performances that included an address by the Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Member State Ambassadors from France and Burkina Faso, musicians, and people with a lived experience from the Democratic Republic of Congoand Belgium. You can watch the event here!

 

In addition to this, a social media campaign was launched to ensure everyone had the chance to take part in the celebration, despite the restrictions of COVID-19. The hashtag #EndPoverty was used to promote a call to action and connect with people from around the world who have joined the fight to overcome poverty.Individuals and groups wereasked to use #EndPoverty to share messages about the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty via social media. Small commemorative events were also held in locations across the globe, including New York.

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