Social Justice: Equal Rights; Equal opportunities; Equal Treatment

World Day of Social Justice is observed annually on February 20th, and this year, the day is observed under the theme, “Overcoming Barriers and Unleashing Opportunities for Social Justice”. The goal of World Day of Social Justice is to raise awareness about social inequality and bring people from all walks of life together around the world to work together to eradicate poverty, sexual identity and biological prejudice, lack of education, and religious bigotry to create a more socially inclusive community.

Although gender equality, justice, and parity are fundamental principles in every country, authorities must build strong structures to achieve “society for all levels”, ensuring that social justice is supported at the national, local, regional, and global levels. Establishing a fair chance for job applicants, enabling equal income distribution, and improving access to opportunities through equal opportunity had become the rallying cry of world leaders in the early years, which is even visible now, and because of this, the leaders of the World Summit noted that human progress should include social equality, cooperation, peace, and fairness within and across states which as a result, the 2008 Declaration informed about the current perspective of the International Labour Organization’s mission in the age of globalization and free market economics and established the World Day of Social Justice.

The day encourages international efforts to find long-term solutions to growth, poverty reduction, full decent work and economic growth, full social welfare, sexual equality, and universal access to social well-being and equality for all. The overall meaning behind this day is to break down barriers based on gender, age, colour, region, religion, tradition, or disability.

It is only when the world is free from curses like unemployment, bodily and gender prejudice, bigotry, religious prejudice, illiteracy, and other prejudices, a diverse global culture where everyone has equal opportunities emerge.

This day is observed in various ways around the world. Many organizations, including the United Nations and the International Labour Organization, issue statements emphasizing the importance of social justice for people, as well as present plans to address poverty, social and economic exclusion, and unemployment to achieve greater social justice. The trade unions and advocacy groups mobilize their members and supporters to observe the day based on “Social Justice and a Good Life for All!” which was declared by the Russian General Confederation of Trade Unions.

Further, schools, colleges, and universities plan special activities or a week of events centred on a theme related to poverty, social and economic exclusion, or unemployment. Various media outlets, including radio and television stations, newspapers, and Internet sites, may focus on issues surrounding the World Day of Social Justice.

While understanding the importance of observing this day, let us support the global efforts to create long-term solutions to growth, poverty reduction, high employment and fair labour, global social security, gender equality, and universal access to public quality of life and justice for all.

Social justice is a shared responsibility, and by working together, we can make a real difference in the lives of people and communities around the world.

Written by: Rtr. Imesha Udawatta

Graphic design by: Rtr. Malithi Fernando