International Day of the Girl Child

Observed every year on 11 October, International Day of the Girl is a global moment to celebrate girls everywhere, amplifying their voices, actions and leadership. It belongs to everyone who cares about girls and their rights. On this day, we come together to recognize and advocate for the full spectrum of girls’ rights.

This year’s theme was developed through consultations with girls, girls’ organizations and girl-led networks as well as civil society organizations and United Nations partners. Together, they called for urgent action to end child marriage and invest in girls’ rights – our 2026 theme.

Why girls’ rights matter now more than ever

Being a girl should never determine what you can do, where you can go or who you can become. Yet for millions of girls across the world, it still does.

Despite decades of progress, too many girls continue to face discrimination, violence, poverty and conflict that deny them their rights, restrict their choices and limit their opportunities. Investing in girls is one of the most powerful ways to build healthier families, stronger communities and more resilient societies. But too many girls are still being left behind.