International Mother Language Day

International Mother Language Day is an international day that aims to preserve linguistic diversity, promote multilingualism, and sustain cultural heritage. It is celebrated annually on February 21 and is supported by UNESCO. The day seeks to highlight the importance of mother tongues in education and public life and to contribute to the preservation of cultural identity.

Purpose and Importance

The main objectives of International Mother Language Day are to protect cultural and linguistic diversity, support the use of mother tongues in education and public life, promote multilingualism, and strengthen social cohesion and peace. The day emphasizes the cultural, cognitive, and social values of languages and aims to raise awareness about social sustainability, inclusive knowledge societies, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

History

International Mother Language Day originated from an initiative by Bangladesh. It was adopted by the UNESCO General Conference in 1999 and has been celebrated worldwide since 2000. In 2002, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly officially recognized the day and designated UNESCO as the lead organization. The UN General Assembly resolution of 16 May 2007 (A/RES/61/266) called on member states to take action to preserve and promote the languages used around the world. Within the framework of the same resolution, the year 2008 was proclaimed the International Year of Languages, with UNESCO serving as the lead organization to promote multilingualism, cultural diversity, and international understanding. As of 2025, International Mother Language Day was commemorated with a silver jubilee marking its 25th anniversary.

Linguistic Diversity and Threats

Languages are not only means of communication but also tools that shape thought, transmit knowledge, and express identity. According to UNESCO, approximately 8,324 languages are spoken worldwide. Due to globalization and social changes, many of these languages are at risk of extinction. It is important for education systems to provide opportunities for individuals to learn in their mother tongues, as this improves learning outcomes; students who are educated in a language they fully understand demonstrate better comprehension, engagement, and critical thinking skills. Multilingual education, particularly for minority and indigenous languages, not only supports learners but also establishes a connection between education and culture.^【1】 

Mother Tongue Education and Multilingualism

About 40% of the world’s population receives education without the opportunity to learn in the language spoken at home. Research shows that early education in the mother tongue enhances basic literacy skills, facilitates learning new languages, and improves overall educational success. Children educated in their mother tongue feel more accepted, while parents can participate more actively in their children’s educational process. UNESCO promotes policies that support multilingualism and cooperates with countries to implement them.^【2】 

Current Situation and UNESCO’s Work

UNESCO carries out programs to preserve approximately 7,000 languages worldwide and to integrate indigenous languages into education systems. As the lead organization for the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022–2032), UNESCO ensures that multilingualism becomes a priority in education, culture, and public policy. The organization views languages as tools for the transmission of knowledge and culture and as shapers of identity, emphasizing that their preservation is vital for both individual and societal sustainable development.