The International Day of Families is commemorated
annually on May 15 to highlight the importance of families in society. The day
offers a great opportunity to focus on the key role that family plays in our
lives and also to recognise the challenges families face today. Family is the
most important part of anyone’s life. It offers a sense of security of having
someone with whom we can discuss and thoughts and celebrate our happiness. In
short, family is our whole world.
International Day of Families: Origin and Significance
In 1983, the Economic and Social Council and the Commission for Social Development recommended that the United Nations focus on family issues. The UN recognised that changing economic and social structures were affecting family units worldwide. Therefore, in 1993, it officially declared May 15 as the International Day of Families.
The day aims to promote
awareness of family issues, increase knowledge of the social, economic, and
demographic processes affecting families, and celebrate all types of families
while acknowledging their diversity and promoting inclusivity. It is also an
opportunity to emphasise the importance of maintaining strong relationships
with relatives, thereby benefiting both individual families and society as a
whole.
