Every year on October 17th, the international community observes the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, recalling that:

Wherever men and women are condemned to live in extreme poverty, human rights are violated. To come together to ensure that these rights be respected is our solemn duty.

This day is a key opportunity to think of the struggle against extreme poverty that takes place every day and of the rôle that everyone has to play in this fight. People living in extreme poverty have an equal right to endeavor alongside all citizens to create a better world where rights are respected for all.

August 12th 2010, marked the launch of the International Year of Youth. The theme of decent work and full employment ("From Poverty to Decent Work: bridging the gap") has been put forward by the United Nations as particularly relevant in light of the ongoing economic crisis. This is why the International Committee for October 17th suggests that 17th October 2010 is a key opportunity to emphasize the dialogue needed between the younger generation and others on the issue of youth.

Following the 20th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child on 20th November 2009, the International Day for Eradication of Poverty in 2010 is a new opportunity to emphasize the urgent need to respect the human rights of youth.

To reach this goal, efforts undertaken to emerge from the economic crisis should encompass and reinforce a close dialogue between generations including those living in extreme poverty.

European Commission