United Nations seeks to reduce extreme poverty by the end of 2015

In 1993, the United Nations began to formally observe the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.  The U.N. General Assembly signed Resolution 47/196 in 1993.  This resolution declared October 17 of every year as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.  The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about the importance of eradicating poverty and destitution across the globe, particularly in developing nations.  The theme for this year’s day is – “Working together out of poverty.”

Although the U.N. formally adopted the commemoration of the day in 1993, there was an event held in 1987 to honor victims of poverty, hunger, fear, and violence.  Over 100,000 people gathered at the event held in Paris, France on the Human Rights and Liberties Plaza at the Trocadero.  The commemoration was led by Joseph Wresinski – founder of the International Movement ATD Fourth World.  Wresinski once said: “Wherever men and women are condemned to live in extreme poverty, human rights are violated.  To come together to ensure that these rights be respected is our solemn duty.”  
Last month, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon spoke to diplomats and members of the U.N. about his desire for the world’s nations to meet ambitious anti-poverty goals.  “To meet our goals, we must empower women and girls.  We must reach out for justice and we must stand up (against) forces of division and discord,” Ban is quoted as saying in an April 12, 2013 AP news article.  During the U.N. millennium summit in 2000 world leaders adopted eight goals concerning poverty with the intention to meet these goals by the end of 2015.  These goals included: cutting extreme poverty in half, halting/reversing the HIV/AIDS pandemic, improving sanitation, providing clean drinking water, and lowering infant and maternal deaths. 
According to the website GlobalIssues.org over three billion people live on less than $2.50 per day.  Furthermore, at least 80% of the world’s population lives on less than $10 per day. Poverty can also limit educational attainment.  Nearly one billion people entered the 21st century unable to read or sign their names.  According to UNICEF, approximately 22,000 children die every day because of poverty. 
Joseph Wresinski’s statement is applicable in the present-day as well.  It is our shared responsibility to stand up against the violation of human rights and work towards eliminating extreme poverty and limited educational opportunities.

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