The observance of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty can be traced back to October 17, 1987. On that date, more than 100,000 people gathered in Paris, France, to honor the victims of extreme poverty, violence and hunger. Since that moment, individuals and organisations worldwide observed October 17 as a day to renew their commitment in collaborating towards eradicating poverty.
In December, 1992, the UN General Assembly officially declared October 17 as the date for the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.
October 17th presents an opportunity to acknowledge the effort and struggle of people living in poverty, a chance for them to make their concerns heard, and a moment to recognise that poor people are the first ones to fight against poverty.
Respect For the Unemployed & Benefit Claimants - welcomes the initiative to hold governments to account. Poverty is a leading factor to increased vulnerability and social exclusion.
In today’s context when governments are introducing drastic budgetary austerity measures, it is indispensable to assess their impact on the daily lives of millions of benefit claimants, disabled & older people, in particular the most vulnerable groups such as older women, people living on minimum old-age income, very old persons living alone or in rural areas, who are particularly affected by the cuts in the benefits they used to receive such as long-term care, subsidised transport, housing and winter fuel payments, etc.
The International Day Against Poverty, is an opportunity to remind governments of their duty to protect ALL citizens, those most vulnerable are being persecuted & at best ignored.
We the people demand respect & dignity !
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