2024 International Day of Family, Theme, Background & Significance

Every year, 15 May is observed as the International Day of Family. The day emphasises and underlines the importance of family, which is the basic unit of society. It also underscores the need to provide the widest possible protection and assistance to families so that they may fully assume their responsibilities within the community. The 2024 International Year of Family is the 30th edition of the International Day of Family.

Background to the International Day of Family 

The United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution in 1993 on the recommendation of the United Nations Commission for Social Development to observe 15 May as the International Day of Family.

The first International Day of Family was observed on 15 May 1994. The day is marked around the world to raise awareness about the issues relating to families and to increase knowledge of the economic, demographic and social processes affecting families.

Theme of the 2024 International Day of Family

 Every year, the United Nations selects a theme that reflects a global issue. The theme for the 2024 International Day of Family chosen by the United Nations is Families and Climate Change. 

The theme highlights the negative impact of climate change on families and their members.

Significance of the Theme of 2024  2024 International Day of Family

Climate change brings increased pollution, while extreme weather-related change brings intense rainfall, causing floods, frequent storms and floods, and drought, which forces people to migrate and adversely affects the livelihood of individuals and families. 

The Theme of 2024 aims to raise awareness about the adverse impact of climate change on families and the positive role families can play in slowing climate change and adapting to the consequences of climate change.

The families need to be educated and empowered to change their consumption patterns so that the impact of climate change can be mitigated. 

Families are also a source of value education, which it is passed from one generation to another Thus, the family can play a crucial role in instilling sustainable habits and climate awareness in the younger members of the family.