“Overcoming Barriers and Unleashing Opportunities for Social Justice”
World Day of Social Justice is held on 20 February every year to focus on the progress of social justice throughout the world and to press for improvements and solutions.
This year’s theme is “Overcoming Barriers and Unleashing Opportunities for Social Justice”. So, the 2023 World Day of Social Justice provides an opportunity to foster dialogue on actions needed to strengthen the social contracts that are meant to protect the rights of workers.
Poverty and inequalities within and among countries are on the rise in many parts of the world. The economic and social crises of recent years have been exacerbated by the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters due to accelerating climate change, geopolitical tensions and armed conflicts.
Beyond the human tragedies associated with them and their impact on the world of work, these crises have highlighted the interlinkages and dependencies of economies and societies around the world.
Social justice makes societies and economies function better and reduces poverty, inequalities and social tensions.
As a community legal centre, Illawarra Legal Centre (ILC), assists some of the most disadvantaged people in our community and our workers know all too well how social injustice and inequalities affect the people of the Illawarra.
Over the last 3 years, we have seen the impact of COVID-19, bushfires and flooding on our community. The needs of those we help have become that much greater.
People who were already living with disadvantages, including unemployment or underemployment, high levels of existing debt, homelessness, or difficulties with access to health and social services were further marginalised.
We know that during times like these serious legal issues can escalate quickly.
We need long term systemic change that affords people a sense of security in their lives.
We need to reduce inequality and end poverty.
ILC strives to advance social justice through the delivery of our free legal services to members of our community. We assist people to realise their legal rights, with a particular focus on reaching people who are experiencing social and economic disadvantage and live in the Illawarra and surrounding areas.
By acknowledging this important day, we recognise the need to promote efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, exclusion, employment, gender equity and access to social well-being and justice for all.
To find out more visit:
United Nations – Social Justice Day
The ILO and the Quest for Social Justice
