International Day of Families
The International Day of Families is a global observance celebrated annually on May 15th. Proclaimed by the United Nations in 1993, this day highlights the importance of families as fundamental units of society, addressing their challenges and promoting awareness of family-related issues worldwide.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: May 15th every year
- Tagged as: Global observance, Family awareness
- What’s the hashtag?: #InternationalDayOfFamilies
- When was it founded?: 1993
- Who founded it?: United Nations
History
The International Day of Families originated from the United Nations’ focus on family issues in the 1980s. It gained momentum in 1989 when the UN declared that year as the International Year of the Family. In 1993, the UN General Assembly officially proclaimed May 15th as International Day of Families to promote better living standards and social progress for families globally. Each year, themes address issues such as poverty, gender equality, and climate change.
Timeline
- 1989: Declared International Year of Families by the UN
- 1993: Official proclamation of International Day of Families
- 1994: First celebration held globally on May 15th
- 1996: Focus on family structure changes due to globalization
- 2024: Theme “Embracing Diversity, Strengthening Families”
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 15 | Thursday |
| 2026 | May 15 | Friday |
| 2027 | May 15 | Saturday |
| 2028 | May 15 | Monday |
| 2029 | May 15 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | May 15 | Wednesday |
Observed
The day is observed worldwide with events such as seminars, family-oriented activities, and campaigns to raise awareness about family-related challenges. Governments and organizations often host discussions on policies supporting families.
Fun Facts About
- The first celebration was held in 1994.
- Each year has a unique theme addressing global family concerns.
- Families are considered the cornerstone of society by the UN.
Quiz
- When was International Day of Families founded? (Answer: 1993)
- What date is it celebrated annually? (Answer: May 15)
- Who proclaimed this day? (Answer: United Nations)
FAQs
What is the purpose of International Day of Families?
It aims to highlight the importance of families in society and raise awareness about challenges they face globally.
Is it a public holiday?
No, it is not a public holiday but a global observance.
How can I celebrate this day?
You can celebrate by spending time with your family, organizing events, or learning about global family issues.
Importance
The International Day of Families underscores the critical role families play in social development, nurturing individuals, and fostering unity across cultures. It also advocates for policies that support family well-being.
Related
- National Family Day
- Universal Children’s Day
- World Social Work Day