Strengthening a Just Transition for a Sustainable Future

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“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”- Dr. Martin Luther King. In recent years, the term "social justice" has become a significant part of public discourse. However, many of us are unaware of its meaning and are far removed from its significance. In a world riffled with strife and chaos, the shouts of justice reverberate through the web of disarray. The powerfully connected takes advantage of the weak and mild-mannered. The employer who lacks integrity exploits his/her employee. The rights of the average person are breached constantly. Undoubtedly, the education system is responsible for the perpetuation of the ideologies and views of those who rule while excluding marginalized opinions. Historically, the purpose of schooling was to reproduce the dominant culture in the society. Most of us have experienced some form of injustice. Unfortunately, the world has normalized injustice through State institutions and personal actions. The United Nations (UN) definition of social justice is “an underlying principle for peaceful and prosperous coexistence within and among nations.” This can be interpreted as a world in which societies are based on the principles of equality and solidarity, understand and value human rights, and recognize the dignity of every human being. The United Nations supports the principle in various ways, from addressing economic inequality to access to education, healthcare, and the protection of human rights, to foster a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Social justice is for everyone, which is why the UN pays attention to the needs of particularly marginalized and vulnerable communities, such as refugees, indigenous peoples and those living with disabilities. In recognition of the importance of social justice to the quality of our lives, the United Nations has designated February 20th as the World Day of Social Justice. . In 2025, the theme “Strengthening a Just Transition for a Sustainable Future” highlights the urgent need for an inclusive shift towards environmentally sustainable economies. This transition must address climate change and ensure fairness and social justice for workers, communities, and nations affected by these changes. The day recognizes that social development and social justice are indispensable for achieving and maintaining peace and security within and among nations, and that social development and social justice cannot be obtained in the absence of peace and security or in the absence of respect for all human rights and fundamental freedoms. The five key principles of social justice are often defined as: the recognition that different people have different needs and circumstances (equity), ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed (access), enabling all individuals to play a role in the political, economic and social life of the communities (participation), protecting the human rights of all individuals (rights) and valuing and respecting differences between people, such as race, gender, and sexual orientation (diversity). Social justice is a foundation of the United Nations' mission to promote peace, security, and human rights worldwide and is enshrined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, an international blueprint for peace and prosperity. On this World Day of Social Justice, let us redouble our collective efforts by engendering a society where no one is left behind in the journey toward a sustainable future. In the words of Aristotle, it is in justice that the ordering of society is centered. Wayne Campbell is an educator and social commentator with an interest in development policies as they affect culture and or gender issues. waykam@yahoo.com @WayneCamo © #WorldDayofSocialJustice

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