In observance of the commitment to eradicate unemployment, social isolation, and poverty, as affirmed by the unanimous approval of the International Labour Organization Declaration on Social Justice for a Fair Globalization on June 10, 2008, and recognized by the UN General Assembly in 2007.
On 20th February 2025, the theme “Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Gaps of Social Justice” calls for unifying diverse stakeholders globally.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has established the Global Coalition for Social Justice, a collection of over 330 partners dedicated to reducing inequities, promoting decent work, assuring equitable wages, and preserving social safety.
The ILO is leading projects in Pakistan, Asia, and the Pacific to promote inclusive economic growth, labour rights, gender equality, and vibrant social dialogue.
As the Second World Social Summit approaches in November of this year, it is critical to accelerate efforts to integrate social justice into global politics. Through the Global Coalition, we advocate for economic growth that prioritizes the most vulnerable and ensures everyone shares opportunities.
On Social Justice Day let’s recommit to building a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Gilbert F. Houngbo: ILO’s 11th Director General
“Social Justice is more than an ideal. It is the foundation of resilient and peaceful societies.”
#SocialJustice is more than an ideal. It is the foundation of resilient and peaceful societies.
Achieving it requires collective action across the full range of policy areas.
On #SocialJusticeDay let’s recommit to building a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. pic.twitter.com/xtyWNWGfvm
— Gilbert F. Houngbo (@GilbertFHoungbo) February 19, 2025
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
“The 17 Global Goals are a universal call to action for social justice, to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.”
Today is #SocialJusticeDay.
The 17 #GlobalGoals are a universal call to action for social justice, to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
➡️ https://t.co/In4bwOieOn pic.twitter.com/lVXH73ALql
— UN Development (@UNDP) February 20, 2025
Dissecting the Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Gaps of Social Justice
This year’s theme, “Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Gaps of Social Justice,” focuses on the urgent need for inclusive policies and robust social safety programs to address systematic inequality.
It highlights the importance of identifying and supporting individuals who have been marginalized or denied opportunities while advocating for proactive and equitable measures to eliminate long-standing disparities.
Moreover, addressing these social justice gaps requires extensive support for individuals and groups often ignored, such as isolated elderly individuals, recent immigrants facing language barriers, and other community members lacking access to essential services.
A simple conversation, an offer of coffee, or sharing local knowledge can create a ripple effect of inclusion, gradually narrowing existing divides and empowering a more equitable society.
Pakistan Vision 2025: A Framework for Inclusive Growth
Pakistan Vision 2025 focuses on a systematic structure of four connected tiers designed to accelerate economic growth and social fairness.
The Mission is grounded in the principles espoused by the nation’s founding fathers before independence and defines the intent and beliefs that motivate progress.
The Vision aspires to present Pakistan as a thriving, advanced economy, borrowing ideas from the Asian Tigers’ transformative experiences.
In addition, the prerequisites for achieving this objective include a shared national vision, political stability, peace and security, the rule of law, and a strong commitment to social justice. These characteristics are not only essential to democratic leadership but also serve as aspirational standards for national agreement.
Integrating Social Justice and Economic Development
Social justice and economic growth are complementary. Pakistan Vision 2025 aims to contribute to inclusive growth, raising living conditions for all individuals, regardless of the past.
The substantial evidence demonstrates that strong Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth does not always translate into broad social development unless joint initiatives are in place to distribute prosperity equally.
Pakistan aspires to guarantee that all citizens contribute to and benefit from the country’s economic development by harnessing indigenous resources and promoting inclusive policies.
Message of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, on the International Day of Social Justice:
The International Day for Social Justice aims to champion justice, equality, and human dignity for all. It reasserted the responsibility of governments, organizations, and individuals to tackle obstructions such as poverty, gender inequality, and prejudice. The Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan ensures social justice and equality without discrimination.
The government has implemented measures to defend citizens’ rights, remove bigotry, and promote diversity. Pakistan has created a digital portal for a social welfare system, which would allow disadvantaged groups such as those with impairments to seek assistance services.
Additionally, the flagship project of the economic transformation plan, Uraan Pakistan, the government’s transformation strategy, focuses on equality, integrity, and empowerment. The objective is to break down inequality barriers so everyone can access fundamental human rights, excellent education, healthcare, and economic opportunity.
A Renewed National Commitment to Social Justice
In his message on this important day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s dedication to fostering an inclusive society. He highlighted several transformative initiatives, including:
‘Uraan Pakistan’ Initiative: A comprehensive program that promotes equality, ethics, and empowerment, ensuring that every citizen has access to fundamental rights and opportunities.
Digital Social Welfare Platform
A newly launched platform that integrates various social welfare services, enabling persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups to receive tailored support promptly.
Targeted Reforms
Strategic measures to address gender inequality, poverty, and discrimination, including prison and gender-based violence reforms, as well as enhanced child protection policies.
Provincial Initiatives: Promoting Human Rights in Sindh
In Sindh, the provincial government supported its commitment to social justice and human rights by hosting a human rights awareness walk on February 2, 2025, Social Justice Day. The event highlighted community education, legal support, and expanded outreach.
Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Human Rights Rajvir Singh Sodha oversaw the initiative, announced robust measures to advance human rights, and led the event that brought together government officials, educators, students, and civil society members.
Tahseen Fatima, Secretary of the Human Rights Department, stressed the importance of providing free legal aid services to ensure timely reporting and resolution of rights violations.
