International Day of Families

THE United Nations observed International Day of Families last May 15 with the theme: “Families and Inclusive Societies.” International Day of Families provides an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to families and to increase knowledge of the social, economic, and demographic processes affecting them.

The 2018 observance of International Day of Families focused on Sustainable Development goal 16 which is refers to the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development. Emphasis is placed on social inclusion of various types of families and individuals such as migrant or indigenous families, ethnic minorities, or families with persons with disabilities. In some regions, emphasis is placed on social protection for vulnerable families to facilitate their full inclusion in the mainstream of society.

The importance of ensuring equal justice to all family members, especially women, was the focus of an international panel discussion. It addressed the efforts at universal birth registration and legal identity for all. The importance of social protection for social inclusion and other aspects of socially inclusive and family-oriented policies was also addressed.

The International Federation for Family Development (IFFD), in partnership with SOS Children’s Villages International, with the collaboration of UNICEF and the Division for Social Policy and Development of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, has organized an awareness-raising event in observance of the 2018 International Day of Families. This was held on May 16 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City.

We congratulate the United Nations through its Secretary General Antonio Guterres for its efforts and commitment through these initiatives for the betterment of families all over the world.