Daily Current Affairs : 17-October-2023

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, celebrated annually on October 17th, is a significant occasion initiated by the United Nations. This day holds the key goal of raising awareness about the hardships faced by people living in poverty. It is a reminder that poverty is not just about a lack of money; it’s a complex issue intertwined with challenges such as access to healthcare, education, and social inclusion.

Historical Background

The journey of this day began in 1987 in Paris, France, at the Human Rights and Liberties Plaza. This inaugural event aimed to honor the victims of poverty, hunger, violence, and fear. The commemorative stone was unveiled by Joseph Wresinski, the founder of the International Movement ATD Fourth World. Then, in 1992, the United Nations officially designated October 17 as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

Theme for 2023

The theme for 2023 is “Decent Work and Social Protection: Putting Dignity in Practice for All.” This theme underscores the importance of universal access to decent work and social protection in upholding the dignity of all individuals. It acknowledges that dignified work and social safety nets are essential components in the fight against poverty.

Significance of the Day

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is not just another date on the calendar; it carries immense significance. It serves as a global reminder of the ongoing battle against poverty, highlighting the commitment to addressing the profound social, economic, and human rights issues rooted in poverty. This day emphasizes the need for collective action to alleviate the suffering of those affected by this complex challenge.

The day calls for sustainable and inclusive development, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that no one is left behind. It envisions a world where poverty no longer stands in the way of individuals leading lives filled with dignity, opportunity, and hope.

Poverty Across the Globe

The scale of poverty worldwide is staggering. According to the United Nations, approximately 8.4% of the global population, or roughly 670 million people, were living in extreme poverty by the end of 2022. These individuals are grappling with not only financial constraints but also limited access to basic services, education, and social integration.

Disturbingly, the challenge is far from over. An estimated 7% of the world’s population, or around 575 million people, could still find themselves trapped in extreme poverty by 2030 if effective measures are not taken.

Important Points:

  • International Day for the Eradication of Poverty:
    • Aim: Raise awareness about the multifaceted struggles faced by people in poverty.
    • Historical Background: Commemorated first in 1987 in Paris, officially designated by the UN in 1992.
    • Theme for 2023: “Decent Work and Social Protection: Putting Dignity in Practice for All.”
  • Significance of the Day:
    • Serves as a global reminder of the ongoing battle against poverty in all dimensions.
    • Highlights the commitment to addressing social, economic, and human rights issues linked to poverty.
    • Emphasizes the need for collective action and sustainable, inclusive development.
    • Envisions a world where poverty does not hinder individuals’ dignity, opportunity, and hope.
  • Poverty Across the Globe:
    • According to the UN, 8.4% of the world’s population (670 million people) lived in extreme poverty in 2022.
    • Estimated 575 million people (7% of the global population) could still be in extreme poverty by 2030 if effective measures are not taken.
Why In News

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, observed annually on October 17 by the United Nations, serves as a poignant reminder of our collective commitment to eliminating poverty and fostering a more just and equitable world for all.

MCQs about Eradicating Poverty

  1. What is the primary aim of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty?
    A. Celebrating human rights
    B. Raising awareness about struggles faced by people in poverty
    C. Promoting economic growth
    D. Honoring political leaders
    Correct Answer: B. Raising awareness about struggles faced by people in poverty
    Explanation: The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty aims to raise awareness about the multifaceted struggles faced by people in poverty, emphasizing that it is not merely a lack of income but a complex issue involving access to healthcare, education, and social inclusion.
  2. When was the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty officially designated by the United Nations?
    A. 1987
    B. 1992
    C. 2000
    D. 2010
    Explanation: The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty was officially designated by the United Nations in 1992, although its commemoration began in 1987 in Paris, France.
  3. What does the theme for 2023, “Decent Work and Social Protection: Putting Dignity in Practice for All,” emphasize?
    A. Importance of education for all
    B. Universal access to decent work and social protection
    C. Environmental conservation
    D. Promotion of art and culture
    Correct Answer: B. Universal access to decent work and social protection
    Explanation: The theme underscores the importance of universal access to decent work and social protection, emphasizing these elements as crucial components in upholding the dignity of all individuals.

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