World Day of Social Justice

World Day of Social Justice History

World Day of Social Justice highlights the fundamental principles of fairness and equal opportunities within societies and in relationships between countries. It’s attuned to promoting efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, exclusion, and unemployment. The United Nations General Assembly recognizes that social development and social justice are indispensable for the achievement and maintenance of peace and security within and among nations, endorsing the need to create more socially inclusive societies.

World Day of Social Justice was officially marked on the UN’s calendar in 2007, and has been observed annually ever since. In relation to South Africa, this observance takes on heightened significance. South Africa’s history is marked by apartheid—an era of racial segregation and economic disparity. The legacy of this era continues to influence social justice issues in South Africa, making the observance of World Day of Social Justice particularly tailored to acknowledging these past inequities, while emphasizing the need to forge towards a more equal and just society.

World Day of Social Justice is observed in South Africa through a multitude of activities, including educational events and campaigns aimed at raising awareness about social justice issues. These may range from conferences and public discussions to cultural and artistic events, focusing on themes such as equality and social solidarity. It’s observed by diverse groups spanning from non-governmental organizations, youth, civil society, and various government agencies. The day is commemorated globally, including South Africa, on the 20th of February, culminating in a diverse range of activities aimed towards promoting a more peaceful and inclusive society.

Top 10 Facts for 2026 World Day of Social Justice in South Africa

• The official theme for the 2026 observance is Empowering Inclusion: Bridging Gaps for Social Justice, which emphasizes the South African government's focus on building stronger social protection systems and reducing the systemic inequalities that persist three decades into democracy.
• Public attention is heavily focused on the Madlanga Commission, a judicial inquiry investigating explosive allegations of political interference and "cartel" infiltration within the national criminal justice system.
• High-profile testimony regarding the Big Five organized crime syndicate and the tragic murder of a protected witness known as Witness D have sparked intense national debate about the safety of whistleblowers and the integrity of law enforcement.
• A landmark R60 billion Class Action Lawsuit against several of the country’s largest banks is scheduled for hearing in early February, centering on claims that thousands of homes were unlawfully repossessed and sold below market value.
• The National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Act has moved into its implementation phase, aiming to provide a coordinated response to what has been described as the country’s second pandemic.
• South Africa's ongoing legal action at the International Court of Justice remains a major point of interest following the January 2026 deadline for counter-arguments in the genocide case against Israel.
• The premiere of the documentary Tutu at the 2026 Berlinale provides a new look at the life of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and his enduring legacy in the global fight for human rights.
• Discussions around the Just Transition are intensifying as the country seeks to balance its commitment to a low-carbon economy with the need to protect the livelihoods of workers in the traditional energy sector.
• The Whistleblower Protections Bill is expected to be introduced in Parliament this year to address the legislative gaps that leave activists and witnesses vulnerable to retaliation.
• The Close the Gap health campaign is under scrutiny as the government attempts to reach an additional 1.1 million citizens who are not yet receiving essential HIV treatment.

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

Top things to do in South Africa for World Day of Social Justice

• Read a book to learn more about Social Justice in South Africa:
  Long Walk to Freedom - by Nelson Mandela
  Country of My Skull: Guilt, Sorrow, and the Limits of Forgiveness in the New South Africa - by Antjie Krog
• Visit Liliesleaf Farm: Once a secret meeting place for anti-apartheid activists, it's now a museum dedicated to South Africa's struggle for freedom.