Around the world, billions of people face extreme poverty and inequality. While attempts to end poverty have been seemingly inadequate, global organisations have not relented in achieving this goal. In fact, today marks the United Nations’ Day of International Human Solidarity. The UN’s General Assembly established the initiative in 2005, in an attempt to promote equality and encourage compliance with international agreements. In light of the political turmoil in the Middle East right now, it seems now that world solidarity is more important than ever.

To discuss the importance of the UN’s Solidarity Day we spoke to Dr Eyal Mayroz from the University of Sydney, lecturer in the Department of Peace and Conflict Studies.