Global Dignity Day: Call for equal rights, respect

Global Dignity Day is being observed on Wednesday, highlighting the importance of human dignity, mutual respect, compassion and equal rights for all, regardless of social status, profession, financial circumstances, religious beliefs or identity.

Observed on the third Wednesday of October each year, the day promotes the principle that every person deserves to live with dignity and be treated with respect.

The initiative dates back to 2005, when Norway’s Crown Prince Haakon, American entrepreneur John Bryant and Finnish philosopher Pekka Himanen joined efforts to promote human dignity as a foundation for social change. The Global Dignity initiative was formally launched in 2006, with a particular focus on raising awareness among young people around the world.


In a world still grappling with inequality, racism, violence, harassment and social humiliation, protecting human dignity remains a pressing concern.

Ensuring respectful treatment for children, women, older people, persons with disabilities and marginalised communities is particularly important in building a humane and inclusive society.

The principles promoted by World Dignity Day extend beyond a single day of observance. Listening attentively to others, rejecting discrimination and humiliation, and speaking out against injustice are among the everyday actions through which respect for human dignity can be put into practice.

Families, educational institutions, workplaces and communities all have a role to play in fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and their rights are protected.

The central message of the day is that safeguarding one's own dignity also means respecting the dignity of others. Promoting mutual respect, tolerance and human values can help build a fairer, more inclusive and peaceful society.