International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

Despite progress, millions are still living in absolute poverty. With recent weather shocks causing global devastation, low-income communities are facing the hardest challenges in overcoming, and surviving, poverty.  The Hunger Project estimates about 896 million people in developing countries live on $1.90 a day or less, and 22,000 children die each day due to conditions of poverty.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the declaration by the General Assembly, in its resolution 47/196 of 22 December 1992, of 17 October as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Call to Action by Father Joseph Wresinski, which inspired the observance of October 17 as the World Day for Overcoming Extreme Poverty, and the recognition by the United Nations of the day as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty:

“On the 17th of October 1987, defenders of human and civil rights from every continent gathered on this plaza. They paid homage to the victims of hunger, ignorance and violence. They affirmed their conviction that human misery is not inevitable. They pledged their solidarity with all people who, throughout the world, strive to eradicate extreme poverty. “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.” ‘
Father Joseph Wresinski

Answering this Call to Action, the theme of this year’s International Day for the Eradication of Poverty  explores ‘a path toward peaceful and inclusive societies’. The Call to Action recognizes the knowledge and courage of families living in poverty throughout the world, the importance of reaching out to the poorest and building an alliance with citizens from all backgrounds to end poverty. The theme for this year’s commemoration reminds us of the importance of the values of dignity, solidarity and voice underscored in the Call to Action to fight to end poverty everywhere. Read more about this year’s theme.

In support of International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, a rich collection of research focusing on education, health, hunger, and income, delves into the many facets of poverty, and questions: how far have we really come? All content is freely available until 31 March 2018.

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Previous Collections

Global advances in technology, healthcare and education allow for sophisticated living; however one in nine people do not have enough to eat. The World Hunger Day Research Collection unpacks the consequences of hunger.