International Mother Language Day 2025: Date, Theme, History and Significance

International Mother Language Day is observed annually on February 21st. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity and the need to protect endangered languages worldwide.

2025 Theme: Silver Jubilee Celebration of International Mother Language Day

The 25th anniversary of International Mother Language Day celebrates a quarter-century of efforts to preserve linguistic diversity and promote mother tongues. This milestone emphasizes the importance of language preservation in safeguarding cultural heritage, improving education, and fostering more peaceful societies.

History of International Mother Language Day

Origins and Proclamation

The idea to celebrate International Mother Language Day originated in Bangladesh, where the language movement of 1952 played a crucial role in advocating for the recognition of Bengali as an official language. On November 17, 1999, UNESCO officially proclaimed February 21st as International Mother Language Day to promote linguistic diversity and multilingualism.

United Nations Endorsement

In 2002, the United Nations General Assembly welcomed the proclamation of International Mother Language Day. Later, in 2007, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/61/266, which called on member states to promote the preservation and protection of all languages. Additionally, the year 2008 was declared the International Year of Languages, with UNESCO leading efforts to foster multilingualism worldwide.

Significance of International Mother Language Day

Preserving Linguistic and Cultural Heritage

Languages are essential carriers of identity, tradition, and history. The loss of a language leads to the disappearance of unique cultural expressions, indigenous knowledge, and traditional practices. This day raises awareness about the urgent need to document, revitalize, and protect endangered languages.

Promoting Multilingual Education

Mother tongue-based multilingual education improves learning outcomes, preserves native languages, and promotes inclusive and quality education. By incorporating local languages into educational systems, linguistic diversity can be sustained across generations.

Enhancing Social Integration and Inclusion

Linguistic diversity fosters social cohesion, respect for cultural differences, and inclusive societies. Ensuring that all languages have space in public discourse, governance, and technology helps create equitable opportunities for all linguistic communities.

Encouraging Digital Inclusivity

The digital revolution has highlighted the digital divide in language representation. Less than a hundred languages are significantly used in the digital world. Increasing linguistic representation in digital platforms, AI tools, and online education is essential to safeguard linguistic diversity in the modern era.

Summary of International Mother Language Day 2024

Topic Details
Why in News? International Mother Language Day is observed annually on February 21 to promote linguistic and cultural diversity.
Theme for 2024 Silver Jubilee Celebration of International Mother Language Day
Origins & Proclamation Originated in Bangladesh’s 1952 language movement; UNESCO proclaimed February 21 as International Mother Language Day in 1999.
UN Endorsement In 2002, the UN General Assembly welcomed the day. In 2007, Resolution A/RES/61/266 promoted language preservation. 2008 was declared the International Year of Languages.
Significance Preserving Heritage: Protects endangered languages and cultural identity. – Multilingual Education: Enhances learning and sustains linguistic diversity. – Social Inclusion: Strengthens cultural respect and equitable opportunities. – Digital Inclusivity: Expands linguistic representation in AI, technology, and online education.

 

Sumit Arora

As a team lead and current affairs writer at Adda247, I am responsible for researching and producing engaging, informative content designed to assist candidates in preparing for national and state-level competitive government exams. I specialize in crafting insightful articles that keep aspirants updated on the latest trends and developments in current affairs. With a strong emphasis on educational excellence, my goal is to equip readers with the knowledge and confidence needed to excel in their exams. Through well-researched and thoughtfully written content, I strive to guide and support candidates on their journey to success.

Recent Posts

ICG Inaugurates Strategic Jetty at Vizhinjam Harbour to Enhance Coastal Security

In a significant boost to India’s maritime security infrastructure, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) inaugurated…

4 mins ago

World Oceans Day 2025 Date, Theme, Significance, Threat

Every year on June 8, the world observes World Oceans Day, a United Nations-recognized event…

2 days ago

Muhammad Waseem and Chloe Tryon Named ICC Players of the Month for May 2025

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has honoured Muhammad Waseem of the United Arab Emirates (UAE)…

2 days ago

David Beckham to Be Knighted in King Charles III’s Birthday Honours

Football icon David Beckham is expected to be knighted next week as part of King…

2 days ago

RBI Raises Gold Loan LTV Ratio to 85% for Loans Below ₹2.5 Lakh

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced a major revision in its gold loan…

2 days ago

PM Modi to Attend G-7 Summit in Canada, Signaling Thaw in Bilateral Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Canada next week to participate in the G-7…

2 days ago