International Day of the Girl Child 2026

International Day of the Girl Child 2026

Every year on 11 October, the world celebrates the International Day of the Girl Child, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2011 to promote girls’ rights and raise awareness of the challenges they face around the world.

In 2026, the theme “End child marriage and invest in girls’ rights” calls for urgent action to protect girls’ childhoods, expand their opportunities, and ensure their freedom to learn, grow, make their own choices, and shape their futures. Developed through consultations with girls, girl-led organizations, civil society, and United Nations partners, the theme highlights the importance of investing in girls’ rights, leadership, and participation.

According to the United Nations statistics, more than 12 million girls are married before the age of 18 every year, equivalent to approximately 1 girl every 3 seconds. Child marriage causes education drop out, threaten girls’ health, increase their exposure to violence, and limit their opportunities to fulfill their potential.  Through its diverse works, IIMA and the Salesian Sisters promote access to education, protection, human rights awareness, leadership, participation, skills development, and opportunities for greater self-reliance—especially for those who are vulnerable or at risk of exclusion.

Education and literacy are in fact more than pathways to knowledge. They can open the way for girls to know their rights, find their voice, make informed choices, and participate more fully in the life of their families and communities. When girls are given opportunities to learn, develop their abilities, and have their voices heard, they are better equipped to shape their own futures and to stand up for the rights of others.

On this International Day of the Girl Child, IIMA renews its commitment to an education that promotes equality, inclusion, and respect for human dignity.

Every girl deserves a childhood, an education, and the freedom to shape her future. Protecting girls’ rights is a shared responsibility. Together, through education, empowerment, and meaningful participation, we can help ensure that every girl is heard, valued, protected, and free to flourish.