International Day of Families Observed Globally

Kathmandu. International Day of Families is being celebrated today with various programs organized in different countries around the world, focusing on sustainable development, social inclusion, and the empowered role of the family. This day is celebrated every year on May 15. The day is observed to remember the role and importance of the family in an individual's life.

Although the United Nations began paying special attention to family-related issues in the 1980s, the Commission for Social Development, on the recommendation of the Economic and Social Council, passed a resolution on the 'Role of the Family in the Development Process' in 1983, urging the Secretary-General to increase global awareness about family problems, needs, and solutions.

According to the UN, the Council suggested in 1985 that the General Assembly include the topic 'Families in the Development Process' in its agenda. Subsequently, based on the opinions and proposals of member states, initiatives were moved forward to improve the condition and welfare of families and to increase international cooperation for social development.

The General Assembly declared the 'International Year of the Family' in 1989. Following that, according to a resolution passed in 1993, it was decided to celebrate May 15 every year as the International Day of Families. This day has been formally celebrated worldwide since 1994.