World Day of Social Justice

2023 Theme: “Overcoming Barriers and Unleashing Opportunities for Social Justice”

The World Day of Social Justice is observed annually on February 20th to raise awareness about social justice and contribute to the fight against poverty, inequality, and exclusion. “Overcoming Barriers and Unleashing  Opportunities for Social Justice” is the theme for World Day of Social Justice 2023. As a result of addressing systemic barriers preventing individuals from accessing the same opportunities and resources as others, this theme emphasises the significance of social justice in creating a more just and equitable society. It advocates a collective effort to ensure equal access to education, healthcare, employment, and other basic needs for advantaged and disadvantaged individuals. The theme emphasises the importance of building a society that is more inclusive and just in order to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Significance of World Day of Social Justice

A significant aspect of the World Day of Social Justice is that it promotes the UN’s agenda of social justice and contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly adopted 17 Sustainable Development Goals that aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and promote peace and prosperity. The day provides an opportunity to highlight the linkages between social justice and the SDGs, and to call for action to achieve these goals. It also encourages people to challenge and eliminate systemic barriers that perpetuate social injustice and inequality.