Day Of The Girl

International Day of the Girl History

International Day of the Girl aims to highlight the challenges faced by girls worldwide and promote their empowerment and human rights. Recognised by the United Nations since 2012, this significant event seeks to address pressing issues such as education, healthcare, child marriage, and gender-based violence. This observance not only highlights the systemic disadvantages faced by girls, but also serves as an opportunity for communities and organisations to come together, take action, and create tangible progress towards gender equality.

South Africa plays a notable role in the history of International Day of the Girl. In 2011, during the 55th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, the South African government supported a resolution brought by Canada to establish the observance. This day is particularly significant in South Africa, where the government and various organisations continue to focus on empowering girls and addressing issues such as gender-based violence, harmful cultural practices, and barriers to equal education and employment opportunities. The commitment to gender equality is evident from South Africa's commitment to the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and the adoption of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

Every year on October 11, South Africa joins the rest of the world in celebrating International Day of the Girl. Observances include raising awareness through workshops, seminars, panel discussions, and public events, often led by non-profit organisations and women's rights groups. The South African government also uses this opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to building a society where girls can overcome the disparities they face and contribute to a more equitable and prosperous future for the entire nation.

Facts about Day Of The Girl

• The theme for International Day of the Girl in 2025 was For ALL Women and Girls. In 2024 the theme was Girls'vision for the future. In 2023 was Invest in Girls' Rights: Our Leadership, Our Well-being.
• It is estimated that over 100 million women around the world are missing. Female infanticide and selective abortion are still commonly practiced in Asia and have led to uneven ratios of men and women all over Asia.
• There are some 650 million women alive today who were child brides.
• Girls are often expected to assume traditional gender roles which can limit their potential and opportunities. This includes taking care of younger siblings or housework, which often interferes with their education.
• South Africa is a source, transit, and destination country for human trafficking. Girls are often victims of these networks for sexual exploitation and domestic servitude.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for Day Of The Girl

Top things to do in South Africa for Day Of The Girl

• Get active for girls on social media. Use one of UNICEF's recommended social networking hashtags: #dayofthegirl, #mylifeat15, #girl4president and #girlhero!.
• Take out a girl in your life (your daughter, niece, granddaughter, family friend). Take her out to do her favorite activity on her special day.
• Invite local women leaders, activists, and professionals to share their experiences and insights on women's empowerment and gender equality in South Africa. Discuss issues specific to girls in the country and explore ways to address them.
• Reach out to local NGOs and organizations that work towards empowering girls in South Africa. Explore opportunities for collaboration and see how you can contribute to their efforts. This can involve providing online support, facilitating fundraising campaigns, or raising awareness about their initiatives.