Every year, on February 21, the world observes International Mother Language Day, a day dedicated to celebrating linguistic diversity and promoting the importance of mother languages in preserving cultural heritage. Established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1999, this day reminds us of the significant role that language plays in shaping identity, culture, and communication. As we approach International Mother Language Day 2025, it is essential to reflect on the value of preserving native languages and the challenges faced in their conservation.
Each year, UNESCO selects a specific theme to highlight the importance of mother languages. The theme for International Mother Language Day 2025 has not yet been officially announced, but we can expect it to focus on the ongoing challenges of language preservation, the role of language in education, and the critical need for multilingualism in our globalized society.
In 2024, the theme was “Promoting multilingualism for inclusion in education and society.” This highlighted the importance of integrating linguistic diversity in education systems, ensuring that students from different linguistic backgrounds have access to quality education in their native languages.
One of the key aspects of International Mother Language Day is the recognition of language rights. UNESCO advocates for the rights of speakers of minority languages to have access to education, healthcare, and other essential services in their native tongues. Language is a fundamental human right, and by promoting mother languages, we uphold the dignity and equality of all people.
