Renewed Commitment to Social Development and Social Justice

Every year on 20 February, the world marks World Day of Social Justice, a day dedicated to promoting fairness, equity and inclusion in societies everywhere. Originally proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, this observance reminds us that social justice isn’t simply an ideal, but a critical foundation for peace, prosperity and human dignity.

“The United Nations commemorates the World Day of Social Justice on 20 February, a day that highlights the importance of fairness, equality and solidarity in building peaceful and inclusive societies.”

Social justice encompasses efforts to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, expand access to decent work, and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive – regardless of their gender, background or economic status. At its heart, social justice is about fairness in distribution and opportunity, and building societies where no one is left behind.

A Day to Reflect and Act

This year’s theme is: Renewed Commitment to Social Development and Social Justice.

In 2026, the observance takes place at a critical juncture following the Second World Summit for Social Development and the adoption of the Doha Political Declaration, which reaffirmed the commitments of the 1995 Copenhagen Declaration. Member States continue to emphasise poverty eradication, full and productive employment and decent work for all, and social inclusion as the interrelated pillar of social development.

The United Nations reports that: “This year’s theme reflects both recognition of progress achieved and acknowledgement of persistent and emerging challenges. While significant gains have been recorded in poverty reduction, education and social protection coverage, structural inequalities, labour market informality, gender disparities, and declining trust in institutions continue to impede inclusive and sustainable development. A renewed commitment therefore entails strengthening policy coherence across economic, social, and environmental dimensions, reinforcing multilateral cooperation, and placing equity and solidarity at the centre of global policymaking.”

Social justice and sustainable development are inseparable. When people have access to education, healthcare, safe work and social protections, communities flourish. When inequities persist, whether due to poverty or discrimination, whole societies are held back. Social justice is thus as practical as it is moral: it unlocks human potential and nurtures resilient economies. World Day of Social Justice urges us to confront these barriers and renew our efforts to dismantle them.

Why This Matters

A 2025 report from the International Labour Organisation highlights that embedding social justice at the centre of policymaking is now an urgent global priority. The report also emphasises the importance of strengthened international cooperation to address the complex challenges driving inequality, exclusion and disadvantage.

The report aligns with the United Nations’ long-standing position that “social development and social justice are indispensable for the achievement and maintenance of peace and security.” And that “[s]ocial development and social justice cannot be attained in the absence of peace and security, or in the absence of respect for all human rights and fundamental freedoms.”

Conclusion

World Day of Social Justice is more than a symbolic observance – it is a reminder that meaningful progress requires action. It urges governments, organisations and communities to address systemic barriers and strengthen inclusive policies so that fairness, dignity and opportunity become realities for all.

Resources

• 1995 Copenhagen Declaration (UN)
• Second World Summit for Social Development, DOHA 2025 (UN)
• The 17 Goals – Sustainable Development (UN)
• The state of social justice: A work in progress (ILO)
• World Day of Social Justice (UN)
• World Day of Social Justice 2026 On “Renewed Commitment to Social Development And Social Justice (UN)

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CourtHeath acknowledges the Traditional Aboriginal Owners of Country throughout Victoria and pays respect to Elders past and  present, and to the ongoing living culture of Aboriginal people.

A participant in the UN Global Compact, CourtHeath seeks to raise awareness about the sustainable development goals and the principles of the Global Compact with business and government organisations in Victoria.

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