International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is an annual observance that raises awareness and encourages collaborative efforts to fight poverty on a global scale. Recognised by the United Nations, it promotes knowledge sharing and engaging in direct action to address socioeconomic inequality, exclusion, and disadvantage. This observance place particular emphasis on the vital voices and contributions of those experiencing poverty, and the importance of listening and empowering affected communities.

Established in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly, the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty was inspired by the first Rally of the Call of the People, which took place in Paris in 1987. For New Zealand, this observance is particularly important in addressing the roots of socio-economic disparities within the country. According to the New Zealand Council of Christian Social Services, approximately 385,000 children in the country live in poverty, highlighting the need for concerted efforts to tackle this issue locally and support those living in disadvantaged situations.

New Zealand observes this day through various initiatives, awareness campaigns, and events, many of which are organized by non-governmental organisations (NGOs), community groups, and public institutions. Educational sessions, accessible workshops, discussions, and fundraising activities are held nationwide, aimed at encouraging conversation, understanding, and engagement within the community. International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is observed on the 17th of October each year, highlighting the importance of unity and collective action in the ongoing pursuit of global poverty reduction and social equity.

Facts about this day and poverty

• According to the World Bank, the pandemic is estimated to have pushed an additional 88 million to 115 million people into extreme poverty in 2020, reversing years of progress.
• 1.1 billion people lack access to clean water. 2.6 billion lack access to basic sanitation.
• It has been estimated that the cost to end extreme poverty worldwide would be about $175 billion per year for 20 years, less than 1% of the combined income of the richest countries in the world.
• As per OECD data, New Zealand still has above average levels of income disparity. Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) estimates New Zealand needs an increase of $5 billion to its welfare budget to adequately address child poverty.
• According to UNICEF, nearly 30% of New Zealand's children, about 295,000, were in poverty in 2020, taking into account housing costs.

In the News and Trending in NZ for International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

Top things to do in NZ for this observance

• Donate to local shelters or certified charities like K.I.D.S (Kids in Distressed Situations).
• Purchase products that are fair trade certified, ensuring producers and workers receive fair wages and working conditions. This supports communities fighting poverty around the world.
• Reach out to local charities or organizations working to alleviate poverty in your area. Offer your time and skills to help them with their initiatives. Volunteer at food banks, homeless shelters, or community centers that provide support to those in need.