International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2026: History, Theme, Global Challenges, India's Initiatives and Current Status

PRERNA FOR IAS

Mehnat Aapki, Guidance Humari

Roz ki Prelims Practice — Experts ke Saath

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2026: History, Theme, Global Challenges, India's Initiatives and Current Status

1. Background and Significance

• The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is observed annually on 17 October to promote poverty reduction, human dignity, social justice and equal opportunities.
• Its origins date to 17 October 1987, when over 100,000 people gathered at Trocadéro, Paris, under an initiative associated with Father Joseph Wresinski, founder of ATD Fourth World.
• The United Nations General Assembly officially recognised the day through Resolution 47/196 on 22 December 1992.

2. Theme for 2026

• The UN's umbrella theme for 2026–2028 is “United for Peace and Human Rights,” with the 2026 focus “Safe Homes for All.”
• It emphasises affordable housing, secure living conditions and housing as a foundation for human dignity.
• Over 2.8 billion people worldwide experience inadequate housing conditions.