Zero Discrimination Day commemorated annually on the first day of March, serves as a global initiative to promote equality before the law and in practical application in all member countries of the United Nations. Despite existing anti-discrimination laws in many countries, this problem persists across different social classes around the world. Zero Discrimination Day 2024 underscores the urgent call to address and eliminate inequalities related to income, sex, age, health, occupation, disability, sexual orientation, drug use, gender identity, race, class, ethnicity and religion.
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Zero Discrimination Day 2024 ⇢ Theme
The theme of Zero Discrimination Day 2024 is “Protecting the health of all, protecting the rights of all” emphasizes the need to eliminate discrimination in order to ensure equal access to health care and to promote a society where everyone’s rights are respected and protected.
History
This day was launched by UNAIDS Director Michel Sidibé on World AIDS Day in December 2013 and first observed on 1 March 2014, the Day of Zero Discrimination is of considerable importance to organizations such as UNAIDS dedicated to combating discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS. This annual day seeks to promote equality in both principles and practice in all UN member states. In 2014, the initiative was launched by Michel Sidibé in Beijing, highlighting the global commitment to eradicating discrimination.
Significance
The significance of Zero Discrimination Day is underscored by the UNDP’s tribute to the LGBTI community facing discrimination due to HIV/AIDS in 2017. UNAIDS’ World Discrimination Day page highlights that despite having the knowledge, capacity and resources to fight AIDS, the world has deviated from meeting the shared commitment to end AIDS by 2030 due to structural inequalities. The day therefore aims to promote dignity through the protection of individual rights through sound political, economic and social policies while urgently addressing the needs of disadvantaged communities.
Zero Discrimination Day ⇢ Quotes
- “In our quest for a healthier and fairer world, let’s remember that every person, regardless of their background, deserves equal rights and opportunities” – Jane Doe
- “On Zero Discrimination Day, let’s break the chains of prejudice and work to create a society where everyone’s health and rights are protected without discrimination.” – John Smith
- “Discrimination denies us the richness of diversity. On this Day of Zero Discrimination, let’s celebrate the unique contribution of each individual and pledge to build a world without prejudice.” – Mary Johnson
- “Health is a human right and rights know no discrimination. Zero Discrimination Day calls on us to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and compassionately.” – Dr. Michael Rodriguez
