New Delhi: Every year on February 20, World Day of Social Justice is observed all over the globe. It is a day that recognises the need to promote social justice, which includes efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, exclusion, gender inequality, unemployment, human rights, and social protections. In November 2007, at its 62nd session, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed February 20 as World Day of Social Justice. The day was observed for the first time in 2009.
On this day, many international organizations, including the United Nations, American Library Association (ALA), and the International Labour Organization focus on the importance for greater social justice by tackling poverty, social and economic exclusion and unemployment. Member states of the UN promote concrete national activities to spread awareness about social justice.
What is the theme this year?
The theme of this year’s World Day of Social Justice is Strengthening a Just Transition for a Sustainable Future. It highlights the fact that our progress towards low-carbon economies would benefit the most vulnerable sections of the society. It calls for a holistic approach weaving environmental sustainability with social justice which would ensure that indigenous people and marginalised communities will receive the necessary support through job creation, retraining, and strong social protection measures. It can be said that economic transformation and decarbonization should go hand in hand with policies fighting poverty, inequality, and open up opportunities for all.
The ‘just transition’ principles have to integrated into both global and national policies. By turning those principles into sustainable development agendas, a fairer environment when cost of change is shared equally among everyone can be attained. We have to prioritize people to strengthen a just transition, and for that, we have to reimagine our environmental and economic systems. Rather than simply focusing on decarbonizing, we also have to keep in mind generation of equal opportunities and resources so that everyone is benefited from sustainable growth. It is upon us to create a future where environmental integrity and social equity go hand in hand.
What is the need for World Day of Social Justice?
In today’s world, poverty and inequalities are rising in many countries. Due to climate change, pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and armed conflicts, social and economic crises have increased. The crises have shows the links and dependencies of economies and societies, highlighting the crucial need for concerted action to respond to them. As a result, World Day of Social Justice is needed to makes societies and economies function better and reduce poverty, inequalities and social tensions. As per the UN General Assembly, social development and social justice are indispensable to achieve and maintain peace and security in nations.
World Day of Social Justice, observed annually on February 20, emphasizes the urgent need for social justice, addressing poverty, inequality, and unemployment. This year’s theme, Strengthening a Just Transition for a Sustainable Future, highlights the importance of integrating social justice into environmental sustainability efforts. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
