October 17 marks the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. This year's theme addresses the challenge of achieving social and environmental justice for all. Though progress has been made in addressing income poverty, there has been less success in tackling its other aspects, including its negative impact on the environment. The UN undersecretary-general for economic and social affairs said the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of viable public institutions in alleviating poverty.