The International Day of Families is an annual global observance that takes place on May 15. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, it aims to elevate awareness and understanding of issues affecting families across the world.
A Look at the Origins
On December 20, 1993, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution designating May 15 as the International Day of Families. This recognition stems from the institution’s acknowledgement of the fundamental role families play in human development and the nurturing of future generations.
Purpose and Objectives
The International Day of Families serves multiple purposes. Primarily, it provides a platform to spread awareness about issues pertinent to families globally. Additionally, it aims to enhance knowledge about the social, economic, and demographic processes that impact families.
Yearly Themes
The United Nations assigns a unique theme to each year’s observation based on the developmental endeavours earmarked for welfare organizations focused on family wellbeing. The theme for 2020 was “Families in Development: Copenhagen & Beijing +25”.
Promotion of Healthy Family Dynamics
A significant part of celebrating the International Day of Families revolves around promoting healthy family ties. Nurturing environments cultivated with love and respect help children mature into well-adjusted adults. Communication, quality time together, appreciation, and respect, form the foundation of strong, supportive families.
Understanding the Theme: Copenhagen & Beijing+25
The 2020 theme, “Copenhagen & Beijing+25”, refers to two World Conferences on Women (WCW) organized by the United Nations in Copenhagen (1980) and Beijing (1995). In total, four WCWs have been conducted by the UN, with the first one taking place in Mexico City in 1975 followed by another in Nairobi in 1985.
WCW, Copenhagen: Focus on Women’s Rights
The WCW held in Copenhagen called for robust national measures to safeguard women’s ownership and control of property. It stressed on improving women’s rights concerning inheritance, child custody, and nationality.
WCW, Beijing: A Turning Point for Gender Equality
The Beijing WCW marked a significant milestone in the global agenda for gender equality. The conference concluded with the unanimous adoption of the Beijing Declaration by the UN. As 2020 marked the 25th anniversary of the 4th WCW and the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995), it was referred to as Beijing + 25.
