World Girls' Day

International Day of the Girl Child is an international day of awareness observed annually on October 11. This day was established to make the rights of girls visible, ensure their equal access to education, health, safety, and decision-making processes, and promote gender equality. The International Day of the Girl Child emphasizes that girls are not merely vulnerable individuals in need of protection but also possess the potential to play an active role in social change and development processes.

Objective

The primary objective of the International Day of the Girl Child is to protect and empower the rights of girls, achieve gender equality, and increase girls’ participation in decision-making processes. This day also aims to raise global awareness, support girls’ leadership roles, and promote equal access to education, health, safety, and economic opportunities.

History

The International Day of the Girl Child was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly on December 19, 2011, and has been observed by member states since 2012. The resolution, proposed by Türkiye, Canada, and Peru, underscores the importance of empowering girls and investing in them within the framework of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals. The resolution highlights the need to protect girls from discrimination and violence, ensure their full and equal enjoyment of human rights, and recognize the role of families and communities in this process.

In the three decades following the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, progress has been made, including declines in adolescent pregnancy and child marriage rates, and increased access to education and health services. However, millions of girls worldwide still lack access to education and health services and remain exposed to risks such as violence.^【1】

International Day of the Girl Child (Anadolu Agency)

Girls’ Leadership and Participation

The International Day of the Girl Child also seeks to draw attention to the leadership and social participation roles of girls. A key goal is to support girls in transforming their communities and taking leadership on issues such as the environment, peace, and social justice. UN Women and UNICEF collaborate with initiatives led by girls to amplify their voices, recognize their leadership, and protect their rights.

Applications in Türkiye

Türkiye is one of the leading countries in the adoption process of the International Day of the Girl Child. The Ministry of Family and Social Services implements projects aimed at strengthening girls’ access to education, rights, and social life. The Edirne Directorate of Family and Social Services continues its efforts to protect girls from discrimination and abuse and to ensure their equal enjoyment of all rights.