Anushree Bhattacharya
Introduction
The United Nations General Assembly on the 63rd session of the general assembly declared the day February 20, 2007 as the World Social Justice day to remind the rights and duties of every citizen.
Does anyone know the meaning of social justice?
It’s an ideology that every individual deserves a fair and equal treatment, and also a reminder to every citizen that everyone has the access to their rights, opportunities, and resources regardless of their background. It embraces political, economic and social aspects, addressing issues such as discrimination, inequality, poverty, human rights, gender equality, education, healthcare, fair wages, and etc.
It focuses on building a society where everyone can participate and contribute towards the society regardless of caste, class, gender, race, disability or any other kind of discrimination that prevent people from living with dignity and achieving their goal with full potential.
Goals
The World Day of Social Justice aims to promote fair society by addressing social and economic inequalities.
The key goals includes:
- Providing Equal Opportunities
- Ensuring fair and equal wages with decent work conditions regardless of gender.
- Bridging the gap between the rich and poor by giving them the opportunity to access the same rights and resources.
- Reducing Poverty and Unemployment
- Advising the government to create job opportunities especially for marginalized communities.
- Promoting programs to everyone that provides education and skill development.
- Eliminating Discrimination and Social Exclusion
- Promote gender and caste equality and advocate for their human rights.
- Stopping racism, caste discrimination, and biases against differently-abled individuals.
- Strengthening Global Cooperation
- Encouraging governments, organizations, and communities to collaborate on social justice initiatives.
- Promoting international agreements that ensure social protection and labor rights.
- Ensuring Environmental and Climate Justice
- Recognizing how drastically climate change affects vulnerable communities and providing the essential aids to them.
- Encouraging sustainable policies that protect the rights of each citizen from all sections.
Historical traces
The (UNGA) United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution, “peaceful coexistence and economic prosperity” on November 26th, 2007 by officially licensing February 20 to be renounced as the World Social Justice Day.
The World Summit for Social Development inspired the initiative with the meeting held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1995, where the global leaders committed to promoting social justice while reducing poverty, discrimination, and ensuring fair employment opportunities.
The first official celebration of World Day of Social Justice took place on February 20, 2009. Since then, this day has been observed worldwide to raise awareness about inequality, labor rights, human dignity, and fair opportunities for all.
Theme
World Day of Social Justice focuses each year on a specific theme, calling for global action to address social and economic inequities.
Last year’s 2024 theme was “Global Coalition for Social Justice: Bridging Gaps, Building Alliances”. Emphasized the international collaboration to uplift marginalized groups and align with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The 2025 theme, “Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Gaps for Social Justice,” highlights the importance of inclusive policies, lifelong learning, and social protections to combat systemic inequality.
Connection to Sustainable Development Goals
The World Day of Social Justice supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 1: No Poverty – Eradicating poverty in all its forms.
SDG 5: Gender Equality – Achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth and decent work for all.
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Reducing inequalities within and among countries.
Importance of Social Justice in Today’s World
Social justice is the backbone of sustainable development. It makes sure that all resources and opportunities are distributed equally to all and the underprivileged communities have the privilege of basic services such as education, healthcare, and employment.
Some key aspects include:
- Economic Equality
Social justice demands fair wages, safe working conditions, and equal pay for all, addressing income disparities and economic exploitation. - Gender Equality
It involves equal access to education, employment, and leadership roles for all genders. - Human Rights and Social Inclusion
People from low or poor backgrounds may face systemic discrimination. It implements the policies to promote social inclusion to ensure that no group is left behind. - Climate and Environmental Justice
Minorities suffer the most from climate change and environmental degradation due to the lack of necessary aids. Social justice includes environmental policies that protect vulnerable populations and provide them basic aids.
How Can We Contribute?
To build a society, even small enzymes play an important role. Here also to achieve a fair globalization with social justice each and every individual, organization, and government all have roles to play.
Small actions we include:
- Raising Awareness: Educating the other uneducated communities about their rights and the importance of justice.
- Advocating for Policies: Supporting decent labor laws, equal pay, and anti-discrimination policies.
- Volunteering and Donating: Helping organizations that work for social justice.
Conclusion
February 20 is a powerful date to remind us that justice, fairness, and equality should be the heart of global development. Governments play a big role in upholding social justice through laws, policies, and activism. By recognizing and addressing the challenges of unemployment, poverty, discrimination, and inequality, we move closer to a world where everyone has the opportunity to participate and contribute to thrive with their full potential. The ultimate goal is to create a world without discrimination, inequality, famine, and only fairness, equity, and human dignity.
(The writer is M.A. in Mass Communication Central University of Jammu)