World Day of Social Justice

World Day of Social Justice History

World Day of Social Justice is an international observance set by the United Nations (UN) to promote the global understanding and advocacy for social justice, human rights, and a fair and equitable society. The day seeks to highlight the significance of economic inequality, poverty, employment insecurity, gender inequality, social protection, and social dialogue as issues that impede social development and peace. Notably, the observance emphasises the link between social justice and decent work, recognising that they are mutually supportive and work hand in hand to promote a sustainable and inclusive society.

The UN General Assembly proclaimed the World Day of Social Justice in 2007, and the world marked its first observance on February 20, 2009. For people in the United Kingdom (UK), the day is an opportunity to underscore the need for enhanced efforts to tackle social inequalities that persist in the country. From addressing the gender pay gap and countering discriminatory practices, to promoting equal opportunities and improving social protection for the elderly and the vulnerable, the observance underscores the importance of collective efforts to foster a more equitable society in the UK.

In the UK, World Day of Social Justice is typically marked by public campaigns and educational initiatives designed to raise awareness about social justice issues. These may include panel discussions, seminars, and workshops on topics such as gender equality, social inclusion, and workers' rights. Schools, universities, charities, public institutions, and social justice organisations usually take the lead in these initiatives. Every year, the UK observes World Day of Social Justice on the same day as the global community, February 20th, offering a chance for all UK residents to reflect on and engage with these vital social issues.

Facts about World Day of Social Justice

• The theme for World Day of Social Justice in 2025 was Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Gaps for Social Justice. The theme for World Day of Social Justice in 2024 was Bridging Gaps, Building Alliances. In 2023 the theme was Overcoming Barriers and Unleashing Opportunities for Social Justice.
• The roots of social justice can be traced back to ancient societies, including those in Greece and Rome, where philosophers discussed ideas of equality and fairness.
• Social justice is not limited to one field of study. It ties in with sociology, philosophy, law, human rights, political science, and much more.
• Same-sex marriage was legalized in the UK in 2014 and the 2004 Gender Recognition Act allows transgender people to change their legal gender. However, LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face discrimination and hate crimes, and there is ongoing debate over the inclusion of non-binary and intersex individuals in legal protections.
• Passed in 2010, the Equality Act was another significant step in the UK's ongoing quest for social justice. The act consolidated previous anti-discrimination laws into one piece of legislation, further protecting people from discrimination based on factors such as race, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion or belief, or gender reassignment, amongst others.

In the News and Trending in the UK for World Day of Social Justice

Top things to do in the UK for World Day of Social Justice

• Read a book to learn more about Social Justice in the United Kingdom:
  The New Faces of Victimhood: Globalization, Transnational Crimes and Victim Rights - by Rianne Letschert and Jan Van Dijk: This book explores the concept of social justice in the wake of globalization and transnational crimes in the UK.
  Discrimination Law - by Sandra Fredman: The book deeply explores the aspects of discrimination and social justice in the UK, providing valuable insights into this important area.
• Attend lectures, workshops, or conferences on social justice topics: Universities, community centres or NGOs usually host these kinds of events.