Behind The International Day Of Families

Family is the essence of life and just like tree branches, its members might grow in distinct directions while sharing the same roots. Having a family offers you a sense of security and belonging. Indeed, having people with whom we can discuss our troubles and share good and intimate moments is fulfilling.

However, just like the society we live in, a family is made up different individuals with varying choices and perspectives. This makes disagreements, differences and various kinds of growth and developmental challenges inevitable. With the understanding of this fact and the centrality of family to global peace and development, the United Nations decided to focus on family related issues such as health, education, children’s rights, gender equality, work-family balance, and social inclusion among others during the 1980s.

Finally, in 1993, the General Assembly concluded that every 15th of May should be celebrated annually as The International Day of Families.The International Day of Families is annually marked all across the globe on 15th May to highlight the importance of families and focus on the understanding of the economic, demographic, and social factors that influence families as a unit.According to The United Nations, this annual observance helps families reflect on the importance, which the international community attaches to various families as basic units of society.

The International Day of Families provides an opportunity to create awareness on family related issues as well as promote the appropriate action needed to address them. The Day serves as a powerful tool for families in all countries to avail themselves of the opportunity to demonstrate support of family issues facing each society.

History

In the 1980s, the United Nations came up with a strategy to create more awareness about families and address family related issues. In 1983, the Economic and Social Council and the Commission for Social Development recommended a resolution on the role of the family in the process of development. This resolution requested an increase in awareness among the public and decision-makers about the issues and needs of the family, along with the effective ways to fulfill those needs.This resolution was granted and in 1993, the General Assembly decided that 15th May would be celebrated annually as The International Day of Families.

The fundamental purpose of this annual celebration is to inspire people to work for improved living conditions and social progress for families all around the world.SignificanceOne of the significant facts about the International Day of Families is that it focuses on raising awareness on various family related issues. This awareness increases knowledge about the impact of social, economic, and demographic processes on the families.

The International day of families also focuses on eliminating discrimination, poverty, preventable deaths, and abuse while also addressing environmental destruction and promoting development for all people.In conclusion, the International Day of Families not only promotes the value of a healthy and well-balanced family, it increases understanding of the economic, demographic, and social dynamics that influence families.