The idea of celebrating International Mother Language Day was approved in 1999.
International Mother Language Day is celebrated globally on 21 February every year to recognize and promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. According to UNESCO, the idea of celebrating this day was Bangladesh’s initiative and was approved at the UNESCO General Conference in 1999. The UN body said, “UNESCO believes in the importance of cultural and linguistic diversity for sustainable societies. It is within its mandate for peace that it works to preserve differences in cultures and languages that foster tolerance and Promotes respect for others.”
History
According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or UNESCO, International Mother Language Day was recognized on the initiative of Bangladesh and is celebrated worldwide since the year 2000.
The United Nations agency expressed concern over the extinction of languages around the world. It said that globally, 40 percent of the population does not have access to education in a language they speak or understand. Therefore, as a commitment to understand the importance of mother tongue or mother tongue, UNESCO decided to celebrate this day.
International Mother Language Day 2024 Theme
The theme of International Mother Language Day 2024 is “Multilingual education is a pillar of intergenerational education”.
A UN statement said, “Multilingual and multicultural societies thrive through the preservation of their languages, which serve as vehicles for traditional knowledge and cultural heritage. However, linguistic diversity faces growing threats. “We are facing challenges as more languages are becoming extinct.”
“Currently, 40% of the global population does not have access to education in their native language, with this figure exceeding 90% in some regions. Research into using learners’ native languages in education, promoting better learning outcomes , underlines the benefits of promoting self-esteem and critical thinking skills. This approach also supports intergenerational learning and cultural preservation.”
The agency also said multilingual education not only promotes inclusive societies but also helps preserve non-dominant, minority and indigenous languages. “This is the cornerstone of achieving equitable access to education and lifelong learning opportunities for all individuals,” the statement said.
Importance of International Mother Language Day
International Mother Language Day highlights the role of languages in promoting inclusion and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It is celebrated every year to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism.
“Today there is a growing awareness that languages play an important role in development, in ensuring cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue, but also in strengthening cooperation and achieving quality education for all, building inclusive knowledge societies and preserving cultural heritage. And also play an important role in mobilizing the political will to apply the benefits of science and technology for sustainable development, said a UN statement on International Mother Language Day.
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