International Girl Child Day 2023: Know origin, history & significance of the day

Every year, on October 11th, people throughout the world celebrate International Girl Child Day. The day is dedicated to raising awareness of and advocating for girls’ education, rights, and gender equality. It calls on the international community to do more than just repeat promises and make substantial new investments in programmes that will help put females in positions of power.

History

There has never been a more progressive plan of action for improving the rights of women and girls than the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, which was widely accepted by governments during the World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995. The rights of women and girls are recognised for the first time in history in the Beijing Declaration.

Recognizing girls’ rights and the specific problems girls confront across the globe, the United Nations General Assembly approved Resolution 66/170 on December 19, 2011, designating October 11 as International Day of the Girl Child.

The very first International Girl Child Day was observed on October 11, 2012. The need to end girl-child marriage was emphasised.

Significance

It was hoped that by celebrating this day, the world would take notice of the difficulties girls experience and work to improve their rights. During these formative years and transition to adulthood, adolescent girls have a right to an environment that is safe, supportive, and nurturing. It’s the day to recognize that these young women can change the world as moms, leaders, teachers, role models, housewives, and voters.

To ensure that no one is left behind in the pursuit of development, global leaders in 2015 established the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Each of the 17 objectives relies on achieving gender parity and empowering women.

Theme

Invest in Girls’ Rights: Our Leadership, Our Well-being

Some Famous Quotes for The Day

“To save a girl is to save generations”- Gordon B. Hinckley

“Smiling face of every little girl is the signature of God’s presence.” – Amit Ray

“We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back. We call upon our sisters around the world to be brave – to embrace the strength within themselves and realize their full potential.” – Malala Yousafzai

“If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.” – Margaret Thatcher

“To all the little girls who are watching this, never doubt that you are valuable and powerful, and deserving of every chance and opportunity in the world to pursue and achieve your own dreams.” – Hillary Clinton