International Day of the Girl Child: October 11

The International Day of the Girl Child is observed every year across world on October 11 to recognize girls’ rights and unique challenges faced by girls around the world. Observance of the day seeks to increase awareness of gender inequality faced by girls worldwide based upon their gender and supports more opportunity for girls. This year it was seventh edition of this day after it was observed for first time in 2012. The theme was ‘With Her: A Skilled Girl Force’. It seeks to bring together partners and stakeholders to advocate for, and draw attention and investments to most pressing needs and opportunities for girls to attain skills for employability.

Background

The International Day of Girl Child (IDGC) was instituted by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by adopting Resolution moved by Canada in December 2011. The observation of day supports more opportunity for girls. It also increases awareness of gender inequality faced by girls worldwide based upon their gender. This inequality includes areas such as right to education, nutrition, medical care, legal rights and protection from discrimination, violence and unfree child marriage. It also calls for empowerment and improved rights of the world’s 1.1 billion girls.

Month: Current Affairs - October, 2018