The International Day of the Girl Child, marked every year on 11 October, highlights and addresses the needs and challenges that girls face, while promoting their empowerment and human rights.
Today marks the seventh anniversary of International Day of the Girl Child. Declared an international observance day in 2012 by the United Nations, it marks an annual celebration of girls across the globe and reminds us of the barriers they face and the challenges they must overcome: gender inequality, gender-based violence, and child marriage.
There are 1.1 billion girls in the world, and every one of them deserves equal opportunities for a better future. They are a source of energy, power, and creativity. They can drive change and help build a better future for all. Yet, most girls often face discrimination from the earliest stages of life, through childhood and into adulthood. Her low status is reflected in the denial of fundamental needs and rights and in such harmful attitudes and practices as a preference for sons, early marriage, female genital mutilation, domestic abuse, incest, sexual exploitation, discrimination, less food, and less access to education.
This year, International Day of the Girl (11 October) will focus on the theme, “EmPOWER girls: Before, during and after conflict“.
Every 10 minutes, somewhere in the world, an adolescent girl dies as a result of violence. In humanitarian emergencies, gender-based violence often increases, subjecting girls to sexual and physical violence, child marriage, exploitation, and trafficking. Adolescent girls in conflict zones are 90 percent more likely to be out of school when compared to girls in conflict-free countries, compromising their future prospects for work and financial independence as adults.
Across the world, empowered girls are raising their voices to fight for their rights and protection in all contexts. They are working to end violence against women and girls, to recognize indigenous rights, and to build peaceful and cohesive communities. At Health Guide 911, we are celebrating the work of such amazing individuals who are working to end child marriage around the world and support the rights of girls everywhere.
On International Day of the Girl Child, let us take a pledge to stand with the 1.1 billion girls across the world as they inspire, innovate & take charge of their own future. Let us give them strength to redefine girlhood through education & skills to soar higher.
Happy International #DayoftheGirl to girls everywhere, to everyone who identifies as a girl, and to those who love and lift them up.
Leave a Comment