World Day of Social Justice

World Day of Social Justice History

World Day of Social Justice is dedicated to promoting equality and justice around the world. It also aims to raise awareness about social injustices such as poverty, unemployment, and discrimination, which prevent many individuals from enjoying the basic human rights to which they are entitled. The day focuses on fostering dialogue about social justice, removing barriers that people face because of unfairness or discrimination, and advocating for sustainable economies and societies where everyone has a fair chance.

The World Day of Social Justice was initiated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007 to encourage the international community's efforts to promote development and human dignity. For the people in India, these objectives resonate deeply. As a diverse country housing numerous religious, ethnic, and social groups, India continually strives to achieve social justice. Its constitution places immense emphasis on egalitarian values such as justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Over the years, attaining social justice has been central to the country's development and policy-making processes, with numerous initiatives designed to address social inequalities.

In India, the World Day of Social Justice is observed with various activities organized by the government, NGOs, educational institutions, and civil society. The day serves as an opportunity to highlight the Indian constitution's values, celebrate significant strides in social justice, and discuss ways to mitigate remaining hindrances. Speeches, round table talks, seminars, and public demonstrations typically form part of the commemoration, often driving the collective effort towards greater social justice in the country. The World Day of Social Justice is globally celebrated on the 20th of February every year.

Top 9 Facts for 2026 World Day of Social Justice in India

• The United Nations has designated the official theme for 2026 as Renewed Commitment to Social Development and Social Justice, a focus that follows the historic outcomes of the Second World Summit for Social Development held in Doha.
• A major point of interest in India is the recent Union Budget 2026-27, which significantly increased financial allocations for the Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs (SEED) and the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) initiative to support tribal and marginalized students.
• Significant legal discussion is expected surrounding the UGC (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026, which mandate the creation of Equal Opportunity Centres in all colleges but have faced a high-profile stay by the Supreme Court of India.
• The transition of the rural employment guarantee framework into the new Viksit Bharat GRAM G Act, promising 125 days of guaranteed work, is a primary focus for grassroots social justice movements across the country this year.
• India continues its intensified efforts through the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, a massive social justice campaign that has already reached over 13 crore citizens to combat substance abuse in vulnerable communities.
• Cultural interest is high following the NDTV Masterstroke Art Awards 2026, which notably honored the Panjeri Artists Union with the Art for Impact – Social Change Award for their work in democratic artistic expression.
• The 2026 observance also highlights the role of the International Labour Organization’s Global Coalition for Social Justice, an initiative that India joined to harmonize national labor reforms with global standards for decent work.
• Activists and creators are converging at the India Arts for Social Change Jam 2026, a co-creative residency designed to explore how "artivism" can address systemic inequalities like caste and gender discrimination.
• Legal experts often reference Article 38 of the Indian Constitution on this day, as it directs the State to strive for a social order that minimizes inequalities in income and status among various groups.

In the News and Trending in India for World Day of Social Justice

Top things to do in India for World Day of Social Justice

• Read a book to learn more about Social Justice in India?
  Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents - by Isabel Wilkerson
  India After Gandhi: The History of the World's Largest Democracy - by Ram Chandra Guha
• Visit museums or exhibitions: Some museums, such as Gandhi Smriti in New Delhi, National Museum of Indian History in Mumbai or Indian Museum in Kolkata, showcase India's fight for freedom and equality, identifying key social justice milestones.