THE 2024 THEME IS “ENDING SOCIAL AND INSTITUTIONAL MALTREATMENT FOR JUST, PEACEFUL AND INCLUSIVE SOCIETIES.

Saint Lucia joins the rest of the world in the observance of International Day for the Eradication of Poverty which is held on 17 October every year. On that day, over a hundred thousand people gathered at the Trocadéro in Paris, where the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was signed in 1948; to honour the victims of extreme poverty, violence and hunger. It was proclaimed that poverty is a violation of human rights and affirmed the need to come together to ensure that these rights are respected. Since then, people of all backgrounds, beliefs and social origins have gathered every year on this day to renew their commitment and show their solidarity with the poor. Not only does poverty lead to a life of daily deprivation, hunger and suffering, but it also prevents the enjoyment of fundamental rights and freedoms, which every human being should be able to enjoy without hindrance.

The theme for this year is “Ending Social and Institutional Maltreatment for just, peaceful and inclusive societies”. The chosen theme underscores the necessity for collaborative efforts to eradicate poverty and discrimination, ultimately paving the way for a sustainable future where the needs of all are met without comprising the well-being of future generations. As a nation, we must fight against poverty by strengthening individuals’ capacities through education, science and support for a creative economy, which are sources of employment as well as of pride and dignity.

Ending Poverty is not just helping the poor – it is giving every woman and man the chance to live with dignity. By eradicating poverty, all humanity will be transformed.