On September 27, 2012, the Human Rights Council has adopted, by consensus, the Guiding Principles on extreme poverty and human rights. The Council said that the Guiding Principles are “a useful tool for States in the formulation and implementation of poverty reduction and eradication policies, as appropriate” (A/HRC/21/L.20).
According to the UN Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, Ms. Magdalena Sepúlveda from Chile, “[t]he Guiding Principles seek to provide for the first time a global standard in the fight against extreme poverty, focusing on the rights of people living in poverty …This is a practical tool for policy makers which will guide States in designing their public policies, particularly their poverty eradication efforts, based on a human rights based approach.” (Press release of September 28, 2012).
The Guiding Principles were drafted by the Special Rapporteur who, in the process, has included civil society and NGOs in her extensive consultations. The Guiding Principles will now be transmitted to the General Assembly for consideration and adoption.
Knowing that almost 20% of the global population of 7 billion people still lives below the internationally recognized extreme poverty line of $1.25 a day, the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty - October 17th - takes on particular urgency. As you look for ways to commemorate this important day in your home, at school or other work place, we offer the following suggestions for your consideration:
1) Read the Guiding Principles on extreme poverty and human rights.
2) Read the Press release of the Special Rapporteur, released on September 28, 2012, in which she urges States to use and embrace the Guiding Principles.
3) Explore the mandate and website of the Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights.
4) Pray and share the Prayer for the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.
5) Explore the website of the International Movement ATD Fourth World.
NGO Office
October 2012
