The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, observed annually on October 17, stands as a global reminder of the pressing need to confront poverty in all its forms. More than just an economic issue, poverty is a multidimensional phenomenon affecting billions worldwide. This day not only highlights the struggles of people living in poverty but also encourages society to listen to their voices, recognize their efforts, and collaborate toward meaningful change.
In 2024, the theme focuses on ending social and institutional maltreatment, reinforcing the global commitment to building just, peaceful, and inclusive societies.
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Origin of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
The United Nations General Assembly, in its resolution 47/196 adopted on December 22, 1992, officially declared October 17 as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. Since then, this day has been recognized globally as an opportunity to promote dialogue between those living in poverty and society at large. It serves as a platform for raising awareness, advocating for change, and working toward the eradication of poverty.
This day was first inspired by the unveiling of a commemorative stone in Paris in 1987, where thousands gathered to honor those suffering from extreme poverty, hunger, and violence. Today, the event continues to grow, marking efforts across the world aimed at eradicating the very conditions that prevent billions of people from living dignified lives.
The 2024 Theme: Ending Social and Institutional Maltreatment
The theme for International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2024 is “Ending Social and Institutional Maltreatment: Acting Together for Just, Peaceful, and Inclusive Societies.” This year, the focus shifts toward the hidden dimensions of poverty—particularly the social and institutional maltreatment faced by impoverished individuals. These experiences of discrimination and exclusion deepen the wounds of poverty, making it harder for people to escape its clutches.
Key Aspects of the 2024 Theme:
- Social Maltreatment: People in poverty often face stigma and judgment based on their appearance, language, or background, which further alienates them from society.
- Institutional Maltreatment: Discriminatory policies and practices deny people living in poverty their basic rights, such as access to healthcare, housing, and education.
- SDG 16 Focus: This year’s theme aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16, which aims to promote peaceful, just, and inclusive societies.
The Vicious Cycle of Social and Institutional Maltreatment
People living in poverty are frequently subjected to negative stereotypes and social exclusion, which erodes their dignity and sense of self-worth. Such treatment often creates a domino effect, where social maltreatment leads to institutional maltreatment. For instance, being judged by one’s address or appearance can result in limited access to essential services, further pushing marginalized individuals into deeper poverty.
The Role of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a comprehensive framework for addressing poverty in all its forms. SDG 1 calls for an end to poverty in all its manifestations, while SDG 16 advocates for inclusive societies that protect human rights and ensure access to justice. The focus on SDG 16 during the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2024 underscores the importance of tackling the societal structures that perpetuate poverty.
32nd Commemoration Event Details
Date: October 17, 2024
Time: 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM
Venue: ECOSOC Chamber, United Nations Headquarters, New York
This event will bring together policymakers, activists, and individuals living in poverty to discuss actionable steps toward ending social and institutional maltreatment. The global commemoration is a platform where the voices of the underprivileged can be heard and respected, reaffirming that they are key actors in the fight against poverty.
Poverty Facts and Figures
Understanding the sheer scale of global poverty can be overwhelming, but it is essential to grasp the gravity of the situation:
- Extreme Poverty Definition: Living on less than $2.15 per day (at 2017 purchasing power parity).
- By 2022: 670 million people (8.4% of the global population) were living in extreme poverty.
- By 2030: An estimated 575 million people (7% of the global population) could still be trapped in extreme poverty.
- Social Protection Measures: In response to the rising cost of living, over 105 countries announced 350+ social protection measures between 2022 and 2023 to assist those in need.
The Multidimensional Nature of Poverty
Poverty is not limited to a lack of income—it encompasses a lack of basic capabilities that people need to live in dignity. These deprivations include:
- Dangerous Work Conditions: Workers in poverty are often exposed to hazardous environments without proper protection.
- Unsafe Housing: Many impoverished families live in substandard conditions, lacking basic sanitation or security.
- Limited Access to Healthcare: Poor communities often face higher rates of illness but cannot afford treatment.
- Lack of Nutritious Food: Malnutrition continues to affect millions of children and adults, impacting their development and health.
- Unequal Access to Justice: People in poverty are often denied fair treatment and face significant barriers when seeking legal redress.
- Lack of Political Power: Those in poverty are often underrepresented in political decision-making, exacerbating their marginalization.
Addressing the Hidden Dimensions of Poverty
The 2024 theme calls for a focus on the social and institutional injustices that disproportionately affect people in poverty. These hidden dimensions of poverty often go unnoticed but have lasting impacts. Combating these injustices requires a multifaceted approach that combines policy reform, societal education, and active participation from those affected.
Breaking the Cycle:
- Eradicating Negative Attitudes: Governments, institutions, and societies must challenge stereotypes and promote empathy and understanding toward impoverished individuals.
- Policy Reforms: Institutions should create inclusive policies that eliminate discrimination and ensure equal access to resources.
- Education and Awareness: Raising awareness about the hidden dimensions of poverty helps build a more equitable society.
Global Efforts to Combat Poverty
Countries around the world have implemented various initiatives aimed at reducing poverty, including:
- Social Protection Programs: Governments have introduced subsidies, cash transfers, and food aid programs to alleviate immediate needs.
- Microfinance: Providing small loans to the poor empowers them to start businesses and achieve financial independence.
- Education Programs: Ensuring access to education is one of the most effective ways to break the cycle of poverty.
Testimonies: Voices of Poverty
Hearing from those directly affected by poverty adds a powerful dimension to the conversation. Here are some poignant reflections:
- From a Consultation on Poverty (March 2024):
“When you live in extreme poverty, you are caught up in a complex system of power relationships and domination. We need to adopt a systemic approach to show how these different dimensions interact with each other.” - A European Seminar on Poverty (November 2023):
“We are not seen as families who need help but as parents who have failed. This perception distorts relationships between parents and professionals.”
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Conclusion: A Global Call for Justice and Dignity
The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2024 presents a timely opportunity to address the social and institutional maltreatment faced by impoverished communities worldwide. Ending poverty requires a global commitment to justice, equality, and respect for human dignity. As we move forward, it is essential to understand that the fight against poverty is not just a battle for resources—it is a fight for human rights, inclusion, and a better future for all.
Let the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty remind us that the path to a poverty-free world begins with recognizing and eliminating the hidden barriers that keep millions in a state of deprivation. Together, we can build just, peaceful, and inclusive societies where every person has the opportunity to thrive.
FAQs
What is the theme of Poverty Eradication Day 2024?
The theme for International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2024 is likely to focus on global efforts to combat poverty, though the specific theme for this year will be “Decent Work and Social Protection: Ending Persistent Poverty Everywhere.”
What is the aim of International Day for the Eradication of Poverty?
The aim of this day is to raise awareness about global poverty and to encourage efforts towards poverty eradication by promoting human rights, dignity, and sustainable development.
What is poverty eradication by 2030?
Poverty eradication by 2030 is a global target under the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 1, which aims to end extreme poverty for all people everywhere by 2030.
Why is it important to eradicate poverty?
Eradicating poverty is crucial because it improves living standards, enhances access to education and healthcare, reduces inequality, and promotes sustainable economic growth, thus fostering a more just and equitable world.
What is the main theme of poverty?
The main theme of poverty revolves around lack of access to basic needs such as food, shelter, healthcare, education, and opportunities for social and economic progress.
What was the main objective of the Eradication of Poverty?
The main objective is to eliminate extreme poverty and ensure that all people, particularly the most vulnerable, have access to basic needs and equal opportunities for sustainable development.
What is the theme of Disaster Reduction Day?
The theme for Disaster Reduction Day in 2024 is “Fighting Inequality for a Resilient Future,” which focuses on reducing the impact of disasters on vulnerable populations.
What is the theme of the poverty cycle?
The poverty cycle refers to the self-perpetuating conditions of poverty, where factors like lack of education, unemployment, and poor health contribute to and reinforce one another.
What is Garibi Hatao poverty eradication?
“Garibi Hatao” (meaning “remove poverty”) was a slogan and anti-poverty initiative launched by Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1971 as part of her efforts to reduce poverty in India.
What are the types of poverty?
The types of poverty include absolute poverty (lack of basic needs like food and shelter) and relative poverty (living below the standard of living of a specific society), as well as urban poverty and rural poverty.
When is the International Day of Poverty Eradication observed?
It is observed annually on October 17.
In which five-year plan was poverty eradication taken?
The Fifth Five-Year Plan (1974–1979) in India gave significant focus to poverty eradication with the “Garibi Hatao” initiative.
How can we reduce poverty?
Poverty reduction can be achieved through improving education, providing employment opportunities, ensuring access to healthcare, fostering economic growth, and implementing social protection programs.
What are the goals for poverty eradication?
The goals include eliminating extreme poverty, reducing inequality, ensuring access to basic needs, and promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Why is poverty important?
Understanding poverty is important because it helps policymakers, governments, and societies to develop strategies that address its root causes and improve people’s quality of life.
Why is International Day for the Eradication of Poverty celebrated?
It is celebrated to promote awareness about the need to eliminate poverty and support those who are affected, while encouraging action from individuals and governments alike.
What is the world Poverty Eradication Program?
The global poverty eradication programs focus on policies and initiatives led by international organizations like the UN to alleviate poverty through sustainable development, economic support, and social welfare systems.
What is meant by Eradication of Poverty?
It refers to the complete elimination of extreme poverty and ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities necessary for a decent standard of living.
How can we eradicate poverty?
Poverty can be eradicated by creating job opportunities, improving access to education, healthcare, and housing, implementing social protection policies, and promoting inclusive economic growth.
What is the importance of eradicating poverty?
Eradicating poverty is essential for achieving social justice, economic stability, sustainable development, and improving the overall well-being of individuals and communities.
What are the 10 steps to solving poverty?
Ten steps to solving poverty include: 1) Education access, 2) Healthcare access, 3) Job creation, 4) Social protection programs, 5) Gender equality, 6) Environmental sustainability, 7) Infrastructure development, 8) Economic diversification, 9) Policy reforms, 10) Collaboration between governments and civil society.
What are the 10 causes of poverty?
Causes of poverty include: 1) Lack of education, 2) Unemployment, 3) Economic inequality, 4) Health crises, 5) Environmental factors, 6) Corruption, 7) Poor governance, 8) War and conflict, 9) Social exclusion, 10) Discriminatory policies.
What is the relief of poverty?
Poverty relief involves temporary or long-term support mechanisms to help individuals and families meet basic needs, such as food, shelter, and healthcare.
Why is poverty a problem?
Poverty is a problem because it leads to hunger, lack of education, poor health, social exclusion, inequality, and limits human potential.
What is the best definition of poverty?
Poverty is a state where individuals are unable to meet basic needs for survival, such as food, clean water, shelter, education, and healthcare.
How to avoid poverty?
Poverty can be avoided through education, skill development, savings, financial literacy, and policies that ensure access to economic opportunities.
What are examples of poverty?
Examples include living in slums, children dropping out of school to work, families lacking access to clean water, and communities with high unemployment rates.
What is poverty in India?
Poverty in India refers to the significant proportion of the population that lacks access to basic resources like food, shelter, education, and healthcare, though the country has made progress in reducing extreme poverty.
Causes of poverty
Major causes include lack of education, unemployment, population growth, inadequate infrastructure, corruption, and social inequalities.
Types of poverty
As mentioned earlier, absolute, relative, urban, and rural poverty are the primary types of poverty.