International Day for the Eradication of Poverty: A Call for Collective Action

Posted On: 2024-10-19 10:53:11

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, observed on October 17, aims to increase public awareness of the difficulties experienced by millions of people living in severe poverty worldwide. This day, which was instituted by the UN in 1992, acts as a worldwide reminder of our collective obligation to combat social injustice, poverty, and inequality. To create a world where everyone may live with respect and dignity, this year's theme emphasises the value of dignity, solidarity, and shared responsibility. 

Poverty is still a terrible problem. The World Bank estimates that over 700 million people continue to live in severe poverty. Vulnerable populations, such as women, children, indigenous communities, and residents in war areas, are disproportionately impacted by this catastrophe. Despite advancements worldwide, inequality has increased and more people are living in poverty as a result of the COVID-19 epidemic, climate change, and growing prices.

To successfully address poverty, we must comprehend its many causes:

1. Economic inequality: Poverty is fuelled by unequal access to opportunities, resources, and wealth, which also makes it difficult for individuals to change their living situations.
2. Education: By reducing prospects for work and self-sufficiency, a lack of access to high-quality education frequently feeds the cycle of poverty.
3. Healthcare: High death rates and financial difficulties are caused by inadequate healthcare systems and restricted access to medical care.
4. Climate Change: Low-income populations are disproportionately impacted by environmental deterioration, especially those whose livelihoods depend on natural resources.
5. Discrimination: Systemic discrimination based on gender, race, and ethnicity restricts social mobility and widens economic gaps.

A multifaceted strategy that tackles the economic, social, and environmental causes of poverty is necessary to eradicate it. Individuals, groups, and governments all have a significant impact in bringing about change. Among the crucial tactics are:

1. Inclusive Economic Growth: Communities may be improved by supporting laws that advance equitable pay, job opportunities, and sustainable economic growth.
2. Education for All: The key to ending the poverty cycle is ensuring everyone has access to high-quality education. Education gives people more authority and creates more favourable employment prospects.
3. Access to Healthcare: People can avoid poverty brought on by medical costs by fortifying the healthcare system and guaranteeing access to reasonably priced healthcare services.
4. Social Safety Nets: Giving disadvantaged populations access to social protection services like food assistance, unemployment insurance, and affordable housing is crucial.

The belief that every person deserves to live with dignity is at the heart of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. Raising salaries is only one aspect of the battle against poverty; another is ensuring everyone can live a happy and satisfying life. By standing together, we may create a world in which poverty is no longer an unavoidable fact but rather a historical wrong that has been resolved.

On this International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, let us pledge to work together to build a world free from poverty and full of opportunity for everyone, whether that action takes the form of laws, education, or daily decisions. We can eradicate poverty if we work together.

AUTHOR: ATHIRA PRADEEP NAIR