INTERNATIONAL DAY

International Day of the Girl Child

Join us in recognizing the unique challenges girls face and the need for empowerment and equality worldwide.

OCT11

Sunday, October 11Every year on October 11

days to go

Roots: Established by the United Nations in 2011
Vibe: A day of advocacy, awareness, and celebration of girls' potential.
Also on Oct 11: Coming Out Day · Sausage Pizza Day · Clergy Appreciation Day
Hashtag: #InternationalDayOfTheGirlChild

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Read her stories

Share books featuring strong, inspiring girls.

WITH FRIENDS

Donate to education

Give to a charity keeping girls in school.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Mentor a girl

Offer guidance to a young student today.

Fast facts

Over 130 millionGirls worldwide are out of school.

Girls are 2.5 times more likely to be out of school in conflict zones.

The story

The International Day of the Girl Child was launched by the United Nations in 2011 to highlight the importance of empowering girls and addressing the challenges they face. This day serves as a reminder of the need for global attention to girls' rights, including access to education, health care, and protection from violence.

Read the full story

Around the world, girls face numerous obstacles that hinder their potential. From lack of access to education to gender-based violence, the challenges are vast and varied. In many countries, cultural norms and economic barriers further perpetuate inequality, making it essential to advocate for change and support initiatives that uplift girls.

Many of the day's themes spotlight education, emphasizing the critical role that education plays in breaking the cycle of poverty and discrimination. By ensuring that girls can attend school and receive a quality education, we can pave the way for a brighter future for all.

Celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child is not just about raising awareness; it is about taking action. Communities around the globe are encouraged to engage in activities that promote girls' rights and highlight their achievements. By working together, we can create a world where every girl has the opportunity to thrive.

Did you know?

Educational Barriers

Globally, girls are often denied education due to poverty, cultural norms, and conflict.

Health Impacts

Many girls face health risks, including early pregnancies and lack of reproductive health education.

Leadership Representation

Women hold only about 27.5% of parliamentary seats globally.

Gender-Based Violence

1 in 3 women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual violence.

Child Marriage Rates

Approximately 12 million girls are married before the age of 18 each year.

Economic Participation

Empowering girls can lead to increased economic growth and stability in communities.

Global Movement

The International Day of the Girl Child is part of a larger movement for gender equality and women's rights.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesIn the U.S., organizations are working tirelessly to promote girls' education and rights.
GBUnited KingdomThe UK is home to numerous initiatives focused on empowering girls and addressing gender inequalities.
BRBrazilBrazilian programs aim to improve access to education for girls in underserved communities.
INIndiaIn India, grassroots movements are working to combat child marriage and promote girls' education.
ZASouth AfricaSouth Africa has seen significant advancements in gender equality, yet challenges remain for girls in rural areas.
AFAfghanistanThe situation for girls in Afghanistan is dire, with many denied basic educational opportunities.