About International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is observed on 17 October. Recognised by the UN General Assembly in 1992, it honours the efforts of people living in poverty and calls for their voices to be heard in ending it.
The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty traces back to 17 October 1987, when thousands of people gathered in Paris to honour the victims of extreme poverty, violence and hunger. The gathering was inspired by Father Joseph Wresinski, founder of the ATD Fourth World movement. A commemorative stone unveiled that day declares that poverty is a violation of human rights. The UN General Assembly later recognised 17 October as an international day.
The day stresses that people living in poverty are not passive recipients of help. They face many barriers with courage, and their experience should shape the solutions.
How it is marked
The UN, governments and community groups hold events that bring people with lived experience of poverty together with policymakers. Schools and colleges run discussions on inequality and social welfare. Volunteers organise drives for food, clothes, books and school supplies, while others focus on longer-term support such as education and skills. In India, many NGOs and student groups use the day for community outreach and awareness.
What to write
Focus on respect and partnership, not pity.
- Thank you for giving your Saturdays to the night school. You listen before you help, and people notice.
- The ration card camp you set up saved so many families days of running around. Proud to work with you.
- Thinking of the women's savings group today. Your stall at the fair did brilliantly, and it's all your own work.
How to wish someone on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
dignity, shared effort and listening to people who live with poverty every day
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty on 17 October?
On 17 October 1987, people gathered at the Trocadero in Paris to honour the victims of extreme poverty, violence and hunger. The UN General Assembly recognised the date as an international day in 1992.
What is the purpose of the day?
It recognises the efforts and struggles of people living in poverty and gives them a chance to be heard. It also tells governments and communities that ending poverty means respecting human rights and dignity.
How can students mark the day respectfully?
Students can learn about the causes of poverty, discuss it respectfully in class and support local initiatives through volunteering or donation drives. Avoid photographing or sharing images of people in need without their consent.
When is International Day for the Eradication of Poverty in 2026?
International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2026 falls on Saturday, 17 October 2026.
What is International Day for the Eradication of Poverty?
The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is observed on 17 October. Recognised by the UN General Assembly in 1992, it honours the efforts of people living in poverty and calls for their voices to be heard in ending it.
Is International Day for the Eradication of Poverty a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Day for the Eradication of Poverty varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty?
Focus on dignity, shared effort and listening to people who live with poverty every day. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Day for the Eradication of Poverty card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .