Introduction
International Girls Day is a global observance dedicated to recognizing the unique challenges faced by girls worldwide while celebrating their achievements and potential. It aims to raise awareness about gender-based issues such as education inequality, child marriage, and violence, advocating for empowerment and equal opportunities.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: October 11
- Tagged as: Empowerment, Gender Equality, Education Rights
- What’s the hashtag?: #DayOfTheGirl
- When was it founded?: December 19, 2011
- Who founded it?: United Nations (with leadership from Canada and Plan International)
History
International Girls Day was established in 2012 following the adoption of UN Resolution 66/170. The idea originated from Plan International’s “Because I Am a Girl” campaign, which highlighted the need for focused attention on girls’ rights. The day builds upon the Beijing Declaration of 1995, which first recognized the importance of addressing gender inequalities globally.
Timeline
- 1995: The Beijing Declaration highlights the need for girls’ rights at the World Conference on Women.
- 2011: UN adopts Resolution 66/170, officially establishing International Girls Day.
- 2012: The inaugural International Girls Day is celebrated on October 11.
- 2020s: Annual themes focus on education, empowerment, and sustainable development for girls.
Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 11 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 11 | Sunday |
| 2027 | October 11 | Monday |
| 2028 | October 11 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | October 11 | Thursday |
| 2030 | October 11 | Friday |
Observed
Empowering Girls Globally
International Girls Day is observed through campaigns promoting education, healthcare access, and protection from violence. It emphasizes the importance of nurturing girls’ potential to become leaders, innovators, and change-makers.
Community Engagement
Governments, NGOs, and local organizations host events such as workshops, rallies, and educational programs to advocate for girls’ rights. Social media campaigns amplify voices using hashtags like #DayOfTheGirl.
Celebrating Achievements
The day also celebrates the progress made in advancing girls’ rights globally while recognizing areas that still need attention.
Fun Facts About International Girls Day
- The day originated from Plan International’s “Because I Am a Girl” campaign.
- Women make up two-thirds of the world’s illiterate population.
- Each year spent in school increases a girl’s future wages by up to 20%.
- Around 12 million girls are married off before turning 18 annually.
- The hashtag #DayOfTheGirl is widely used to share stories and initiatives.
Quiz
- What year was International Girls Day founded?
- Answer: 2011
- Which campaign inspired the creation of International Girls Day?
- Answer: “Because I Am a Girl”
- What is the official hashtag for this day?
- Answer: #DayOfTheGirl
- Which country proposed this observance to the UN?
- Answer: Canada
- What was the theme for International Girls Day in 2023?
- Answer: “Our time is now—our rights, our future”
FAQs
- What is International Girls Day?
International Girls Day is a global observance highlighting challenges faced by girls while promoting their empowerment and rights. - Why is it celebrated on October 11?
October 11 was chosen by the UN when adopting Resolution 66/170 in December 2011. - What are common activities on this day?
Activities include workshops, rallies, social media campaigns, and educational programs advocating for gender equality. - How can I participate in International Girls Day?
You can join events hosted by NGOs or use hashtags like #DayOfTheGirl to spread awareness online. - Why is education emphasized during this observance?
Education empowers girls to break cycles of poverty and discrimination while enabling them to contribute meaningfully to society.
Importance of International Girls Day
Addressing Inequality
This day shines a spotlight on gender-based inequalities that hinder girls’ access to education, healthcare, and opportunities.
Promoting Empowerment
By investing in girls’ rights today, society ensures a brighter future with empowered women leading change across sectors.
Global Development Impact
Empowering girls contributes significantly to achieving sustainable development goals by fostering inclusive growth and innovation.
Related
- International Women’s Day (March)
- World Children’s Day (November)
- National Daughters Day (September)