World Social Justice Day to be marked on Feb 20

ISLAMABAD: Like other parts of the globe, United Nations (UN) World Day of Social Justice will be marked on February 20 (Saturday) to encourage people to look at how social justice affects poverty eradication.

It also focuses on the goal of achieving full employment and support for social integration.

The World Summit for Social Development, which promoted social justice, was held in Copenhagen (pictured above) in 1995. Many organizations, including the UN and the International Labour Office, make statements on the importance of social justice for people.

Many organizations also present plans for greater social justice by tackling poverty, social and economic exclusion and unemployment. Trade unions and campaign groups are invited to call on their members and supporters to mark the day.

The Russian General Confederation of Trade Unions declared that the common slogan would be “Social Justice and Decent Life for All!”.

Schools, colleges and universities may prepare special activities for the day or plan a week of events around a theme related to poverty, social and economic exclusion or unemployment.

Different media, including radio and television stations, newspapers and Internet sites, may give attention to the issues around the World Day of Social Justice.

It is hoped that particular coverage is given to the links between the illicit trade in diamonds and armed conflicts, particularly in Africa, and the importance of the International Criminal Court.

This is an independent court that conducts trials of people accused of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. The World Summit for Social Development was held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1995 and resulted in the Copenhagen Declaration and Programme of Action.