International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is today!

About International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

The day rests on the idea that poverty is not only a lack of money but a web of linked deprivations, such as unsafe housing, dangerous work, hunger, poor access to health care and justice, and little political voice. Its organizers stress that policies to end poverty should be designed with people who live it, not just for them. According to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals Report 2026, about 826 million people, roughly 10% of the world's population, still live in extreme poverty.

The observance began outside the UN. On October 17, 1987, Joseph Wresinski, founder of the anti-poverty movement ATD Fourth World, called on human rights defenders to gather at the Trocadéro in Paris, where the Universal Declaration of Human Rights had been adopted in 1948. More than 100,000 people came to honor victims of extreme poverty, violence and hunger, and a commemorative stone was unveiled declaring that extreme poverty violates human rights. Replicas of the stone now stand in many places, including the garden of UN Headquarters in New York, where the UN holds its yearly commemoration.

The UN General Assembly declared October 17 the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty in resolution 47/196, adopted on December 22, 1992. It invited countries to use the day to present concrete actions against poverty and destitution.

The UN and the International Committee for October 17 promote a shared theme. For 2026 to 2028 the theme is "United for Peace and Human Rights," and the 2026 observance focuses on "Safe Homes for All," drawing attention to adequate housing as a basis for a dignified life.

Sources: United Nations: International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, United Nations: Background on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, International Committee for October 17 (Overcoming Extreme Poverty): Who we are, General Assembly resolution 47/196 (1992). How we check dates.

How to mark International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

• Find out whether your town has a replica of the October 17 commemorative stone or a local event organized by ATD Fourth World or a similar group, and attend.
• Volunteer with a food bank, tenant support group or shelter, and ask what they most need beyond the busy holiday season.
• Read the UN's concept note for this year's theme and share one finding with friends or classmates.
• Learn what social protection programs exist where you live and help someone who may be eligible find the application.
• Invite a person with lived experience of poverty to speak at your school, faith group or workplace, and pay them for their time.

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty dates