International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

The United Nations-recognised International Day for the Eradication of Poverty was first marked on 17 October 1987, when more than one hundred thousand people gathered at the Trocadéro in Paris to honour the victims of extreme poverty, violence and hunger. Since then, people of all backgrounds, beliefs and social origins have come together every year on this day to renew their commitment to fighting poverty and to show their solidarity with those in poverty.

The day represents an opportunity to recognise the efforts and struggles of those living in poverty, and is also a chance for them to make their experiences and their concerns heard. Their participation has been at the heart of the day’s celebration since its inception. In the words of one father, 17 October “… is a day to reflect on one’s own life and that of the many families we know who are experiencing poverty and facing hardships to pay the bills and the rent arrears. Today, we remember others who live in poverty and campaign for poverty to be eradicated. Poverty takes away your dignity; fighting for an end to poverty gives you your dignity back.”

Each year, delegations from ATD Fourth World attend and take part in different events to commemorate the day, from ceremonies at the United Nations in New York and the European Parliament in Brussels to an Open Day in London designed to make links with grassroots organisations, elected officials and members of the local community.

ATD Fourth World also works closely with the Trades Union Congress Poverty Conference held every October and which has looked at the issues of reform of the welfare state and the negative attitudes towards those in poverty.