The International Day of the Girl Child is a United Nations designated observance that highlights the rights and potential of girls around the world. First commemorated on October 11, 2012, this day promotes greater opportunities for girls and calls attention to the gender-based inequalities they continue to face globally. These disparities affect access to education, nutrition, healthcare, legal protection, and freedom from discrimination, violence, and child marriage. The celebration also underscores the growing recognition of girls and young women as influential contributors to development policy, programs, advocacy, and research worldwide.