Who We Are

Forum Correspondents

Committed people who develop knowledge based on what they learn from the resilience, courage and solidarity of people living in poverty. Through their actions, they join a current of refusal of extreme poverty, and contribute to rebuilding our societies from and with the poorest.

International Committee for October 17

The composition of the International Committee for October 17 is unique, with members coming from different backgrounds, including people with first-hand experience of extreme poverty, all committed together against poverty and exclusion Its main goal is to promote the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

History

“Joseph Wresinski, founder of ATD Fourth World, was concerned that no one should be left alone in the face of poverty when he initiated the Forum on Overcoming Extreme Poverty in 1981.

On 17 October 1987, he called on defenders of human and civil rights from all countries to gather. More than a hundred thousand people responded to this call. Together they celebrate the first World Day to Overcome Extreme Poverty. In 1992, the United Nations recognised 17 October as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, which has since been commemorated around the world.