The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, observed annually on October 17th, serves as a reminder of the global fight against poverty and the persistent inequalities that continue to affect millions. This year, the theme—”Ending Social and Institutional Maltreatment: Acting Together for Just, Peaceful, and Inclusive Societies”—calls for collective action to address the deeply ingrained injustices within social and institutional structures that perpetuate poverty.

Social and institutional maltreatment refers to the systemic inequalities, discriminatory practices, and marginalisation that people, particularly the poor and vulnerable, face within society and its institutions. These institutions include governments, legal systems, healthcare, education, and employment sectors, which, when biassed or unjust, can limit access to opportunities and reinforce cycles of poverty.

Whether it is through racial, gender, or economic discrimination, social and institutional maltreatment manifests in numerous ways, hindering millions from achieving their potential. When systems are designed or implemented in a way that favours the privileged, the marginalised communities continue to bear the brunt of poverty and social exclusion.

Acting Together for Just, Peaceful, and Inclusive Societies
This year’s theme emphasises the need for collective action to transform societies into ones that are more inclusive, just, and peaceful. Poverty cannot be eradicated solely through economic policies or financial aid—it requires systemic change that addresses the root causes of inequality and marginalisation.

Key Areas for Action

• Reforming Institutional Structures: Many institutions, from local governments to multinational organisations, perpetuate inequality through policies and practices that favour certain groups over others. To end this, institutional reforms that promote equal access to education, healthcare, and justice are necessary. This also involves creating opportunities for the underprivileged to participate in decision-making processes, ensuring their voices are heard and represented.
• Ending Discrimination: Discrimination based on gender, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status exacerbates poverty by denying certain groups access to resources, opportunities, and services. To build inclusive societies, it is essential to dismantle discriminatory systems and promote equal rights for all, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has the chance to improve their lives.
• Promoting Social Protection Systems: Robust social protection systems—such as healthcare, unemployment benefits, education, and social security—are critical to reducing poverty. Governments and institutions must ensure that these systems are accessible to the most vulnerable populations, providing them with the support needed to escape poverty traps.
• Empowering Communities: Local communities play a crucial role in fostering inclusivity and peace. By empowering people at the grassroots level, especially those living in poverty, communities can work together to create solutions that address their specific challenges. Building local resilience and supporting grassroots movements is key to making long-term progress in the fight against poverty.
• Fostering Global Solidarity: While local and national efforts are crucial, poverty is a global issue that requires international collaboration. Governments, organisations, and individuals must act in solidarity, sharing resources, knowledge, and best practices to ensure that poverty eradication efforts reach those in need. International cooperation is vital in addressing the global dimensions of poverty, including climate change, economic instability, and global health crises.

The vision of a just, peaceful, and inclusive society is not only a moral imperative but also a practical necessity for achieving sustainable development. The eradication of poverty is inextricably linked to the promotion of peace, justice, and human rights. As long as inequality, exclusion, and institutional maltreatment persist, poverty will continue to afflict millions