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“Equality of opportunity is the essence of social justice.” – Tony Honore

The World Day of Social Justice is celebrated on February 20th with an underlying principle for peaceful and prosperous co-existence within and among nations. It is vital for any healthy society as it can provide equal rights to all humans within a society because that’s the only way societies and nations flourish without any discriminations under peaceful circumstances. The theme for 2019 is: “If you want peace and development, work for social justice.”

Below you will find 5 ways to help fight injustice around the world:

1. Eliminate global hunger and poverty

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More than 800 million people, or 11 per cent of the world’s population, are suffering from chronic hunger.

From crippling debt to the oppression of women to wars and conflict, concerns of social justice are intrinsically associated with poverty and hunger. Due to social injustice and discrimination the poor have limited access to health education, medical services and other services as a result, problems of hunger, malnutrition and diseases. A multi-faceted proposition is needed to help end world hunger, including executing projects that engage with the numerous agents of food security, while also engaging in policy debates that determine our future programs.

2. Promote gender equality

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One in three women worldwide have experienced either intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime.

Women and girls, everywhere, must have equal rights and opportunity, and be able to live free of violence and discrimination. By highlighting the stories of the most vulnerable women, we can help empower the next generation of female leaders to go even further and reach new heights. Take part in a campaign; raise awareness on social media; or donate to an appropriate organization that helps women in need. Your voice matters.

3. Fight for employment rights

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In 2017 there were around 300 million workers in extreme poverty, living on less than US$1.90 per day.

Fair treatment of workers is sound public policy and good business practice. Offering free access to comprehensive, unbiased information about workers’ rights is essential in any fair workplace. Studies have proven that equal sharing of wealth is strengthened through equal opportunity for employment. Help by supporting trade unions that demand fair treatment from public and private employers, and continue to support employees and their families.

4. Support diversity in the workplace

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It is no coincidence that 39% of people living in poverty in the UK live in a family where at least one person is disabled.

No one may be discriminated against because of their sex, race, religion, disability, political views, sexual orientation or nationality in exercising their rights. Unfortunately, human rights violations are still rampant, especially in the developing world. For business, diversity can improve productivity, be a source of innovation, facilitate better risk management, enhance customer and business partner satisfaction, and open the door to or help maintain business opportunities.

5. Volunteer your time

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77% of volunteer’s report changes in their social action after volunteering, with 55% of the total being more involved as a result.

By donating a few hours of your time, you can make the difference in the life of a child and thwart a systemic, root cause of injustice. Before you get involved in any movement, make sure you understand what the cause is — and what it’s trying to achieve. It’s a great idea to build connections with other like-minded people. Local activist groups and organizers often hold open meetings and are excited to have new people involved.

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