International Day of the Girl Child: Date, significance, history, and more

International Day of the Girl Child: The International Day of the Girl Child is observed annually on October 11 to promote the rights of girls and raise awareness about the challenges they face throughout their lives. This day highlights the importance of providing girls with a healthy, safe, and educated upbringing, not only in their early years but also as they grow into adulthood. 

The International Day of the Girl Child encourages individuals to become advocates for change and to empower girls to reach their full potential, recognising their role as the future of society.

The observance also draws attention to global issues affecting women and girls, pushing for action-oriented solutions that can lead to tangible improvements. The theme for the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child is ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future.’ This theme underscores the urgency of addressing ongoing challenges while embracing the hope and vision that girls have for a better future, driven by their voices and aspirations.

The 2024 theme calls for investment in proven strategies that can help accelerate progress toward a world where every girl can fulfil her potential. It is a reminder to listen to girls and support solutions that create lasting change.

What is the history of International Day of the Girl Child? 

The history of this day dates back to the 1995 World Conference on Women in Beijing, where countries around the globe adopted the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. This was a landmark agreement and the first global plan to highlight the specific rights of girls, alongside those of women. The United Nations later formalised the occasion when the General Assembly adopted Resolution 66/170 on December 19, 2011, designating October 11 as the International Day of the Girl Child.

When was first International Day of the Girl Child celebrated? 

The first International Day of the Girl Child was observed in 2012, with a focus on ending child marriage. Since then, the day has served as a platform to advocate for the rights and empowerment of girls worldwide.