World Day of Social Justice

World Day of Social Justice History

World Day of Social Justice is an international observance set by the United Nations (UN) to promote the global understanding and advocacy for social justice, human rights, and a fair and equitable society. The day seeks to highlight the significance of economic inequality, poverty, employment insecurity, gender inequality, social protection, and social dialogue as issues that impede social development and peace. Notably, the observance emphasises the link between social justice and decent work, recognising that they are mutually supportive and work hand in hand to promote a sustainable and inclusive society.

The UN General Assembly proclaimed the World Day of Social Justice in 2007, and the world marked its first observance on February 20, 2009. For people in the United Kingdom (UK), the day is an opportunity to underscore the need for enhanced efforts to tackle social inequalities that persist in the country. From addressing the gender pay gap and countering discriminatory practices, to promoting equal opportunities and improving social protection for the elderly and the vulnerable, the observance underscores the importance of collective efforts to foster a more equitable society in the UK.

In the UK, World Day of Social Justice is typically marked by public campaigns and educational initiatives designed to raise awareness about social justice issues. These may include panel discussions, seminars, and workshops on topics such as gender equality, social inclusion, and workers' rights. Schools, universities, charities, public institutions, and social justice organisations usually take the lead in these initiatives. Every year, the UK observes World Day of Social Justice on the same day as the global community, February 20th, offering a chance for all UK residents to reflect on and engage with these vital social issues.

Top 9 Facts for 2026 World Day of Social Justice in the UK

• The World Day of Social Justice is observed globally on 20 February to promote efforts in tackling issues such as poverty, gender inequality, and physical exclusion, with the 2026 observance focusing on the theme Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Gaps for Social Justice.
• The day was officially established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007 through Resolution 62/10, rooted in the legacy of the 1995 Copenhagen Declaration and Programme of Action which placed social development at the heart of the global agenda.
• In the United Kingdom, the 2026 observance is expected to be dominated by discussions surrounding the Employment Rights Act 2025, which introduces the most significant overhaul of British workplace laws in decades, including the removal of "exploitative" zero-hour contracts and the establishment of day-one rights for paternity leave.
• Significant changes to UK industrial relations are scheduled to take effect in February 2026, granting employees participating in lawful industrial action stronger protections against dismissal and simplifying the logistics for trade unions by removing the legal requirement for picket supervisors.
• Public interest in the United Kingdom is likely to be high regarding the Together alliance, a coalition of over 50 organisations supported by figures such as Sir Lenny Henry and Paloma Faith, which is mobilising for a major national demonstration in London to promote unity and oppose far-right extremism.
• Because the observance falls within LGBT+ History Month in the UK, many national events will specifically explore intersectional social justice, such as the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ veterans and the impact of the Windrush scandal on minority communities.
• A critical focus for 2026 is the emergence of "digital justice," as legal practitioners and workers in the UK increasingly seek to understand how artificial intelligence and automated decision-making might exacerbate systemic biases in recruitment and social security.
• Global statistics highlight the urgency of the day, with research indicating that the richest 1% of the population currently owns nearly half of the world's total wealth, while universal access to education remains a primary goal that could lift 420 million people out of poverty.
• The upcoming establishment of the Fair Work Agency in April 2026 will serve as a major talking point during the observance, as it aims to consolidate existing enforcement bodies to better protect statutory sick pay and holiday rights for workers across the country.

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

Top things to do in the UK for World Day of Social Justice

• Read a book to learn more about Social Justice in the United Kingdom:
  The New Faces of Victimhood: Globalization, Transnational Crimes and Victim Rights - by Rianne Letschert and Jan Van Dijk: This book explores the concept of social justice in the wake of globalization and transnational crimes in the UK.
  Discrimination Law - by Sandra Fredman: The book deeply explores the aspects of discrimination and social justice in the UK, providing valuable insights into this important area.
• Attend lectures, workshops, or conferences on social justice topics: Universities, community centres or NGOs usually host these kinds of events.