Every year, on 17 October, there is an international mobilisation to amplify the voices of those who fight daily against poverty. The theme chosen for this day does not come from a small committee, but from hundreds of individuals around the world, including people living in poverty.
At the beginning of February, a questionnaire is sent out by the Forum, on behalf of the International Committee for 17 October, regarding the selection of the theme for the World Day for Overcoming Poverty. Last year, we chose a main theme for a two-year cycle covering 2024–2025: “Ending Social and Institutional Abuse”. In 2025, therefore, the focus has been placed on a sub-theme for 17 October.
This summary is the result of a large-scale consultation process, launched to ensure that the 2025 theme for this day is grounded in real-life experiences, struggles and reflections. This process is unique, as it is the people affected by poverty, along with those who stand alongside them, who express what matters, what wounds them, and what gives them strength to carry on.
We did not merely collect opinions. We listened to stories. We heard cries, calls for solidarity, suggestions, anger, and hopes. And we took them seriously.
This summary first gives an overview of the support received for the proposed sub-theme. In total, of the 201 people who participated in this year’s consultation (compared to 214 last year), nearly 87% expressed support for the proposed sub-theme. The following sections address the reservations and criticisms raised by those who responded to the consultation. These differing views are not obstacles, but valuable contributions. They show that the people concerned have a complex, clear-sighted and often systemic understanding of their situation. There was also a section based on personal observations and lived experiences.
As always with this kind of summary exercise, our priority has been to respect the words entrusted to us, as they were expressed, without over-interpreting them. As you will see, we have tried to group ideas where possible, while also allowing space for isolated, unique or minority voices. This summary does not take a position. It aims to act as a mirror, a platform, and a starting point to go further, together, in preparing for the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.
What this summary reveals is a collective reflection grounded in experience, far removed from preconceived ideas. It is a call to listen differently, and to act differently. This summary gives voice to lived experiences, to crucial issues, as well as to proposals for the years ahead. It also reflects the collective discussions that allowed certain ideas to be explored in greater depth.
As with every year, this summary invites us to recognise the voices of the poorest as a source of insight. In turn, we invite you, as the Forum’s coordination team, to make this document your own as you plan your 17 October International Day.
This summary is not a static report. It is a living tool, which encourages reflection, dialogue and action. It can serve as a basis for local discussions, training sessions, and awareness-raising campaigns, offering valuable insight rooted in reality.