International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

“Before I knew my rights, I accepted all the abuse, the inadequate pay, the hours of slave labour […]. I suffered a lot, I had nightmares.” — Ana Isabel, Peru

This was one of the many testimonies gathered during the extensive consultation carried out at the beginning of the year by the Forum du Refus de la Misère network in preparation for this International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, marked by the United Nations since 1992.

The theme of the day, “Decent Work and Social Protection: Putting Dignity in Practice for all,” emphasizes that the dignity of every human being is a fundamental right, and the source of all other fundamental rights.

Despite the commitment through the 2030 Agenda to “end poverty, protect the planet and ensure peace and prosperity for all,” the UN recognizes that there is still much to be done. According to data, “1.3 billion people still live in multidimensional poverty, nearly half of whom are children and young people.”

“My husband has to take all the abuse because the unemployed are waiting in line. People are deprived of the basics and have no other choice.” — Georgette, Lebanon

At the same time, corporate power and the wealth of the rich have increased dramatically over the past year, while millions of people suffer from a deterioration in their rights and employment conditions.

Activities are being organized around the world to mark the day.