International Mother Language Day 2025, Theme, History

25-02-2025

06:52 AM

International Mother Language Day 2025 observed on 21 February every year aims to promote cultural and linguistic diversity all over the world. The day recognised by UNESCO, highlights the significance of preserving mother language and ensuring multilingual education. This year marks the silver jubilee celebration of International Mother Language Day 2025..

International Mother Language Day 2025 Overview

The International Mother Language Day 2025 aims to spread awareness about the importance of protecting endangered languages and respecting the linguistic rights of people. Celebrating this day includes educational programs, cultural activities and discussions etc.

International Mother Language Day 2025 Overview
Date	February 21, 2025
Purpose	Promote awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism
Background	First announced by UNESCO on November 17, 1999. Formally recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 2002.
Theme	"Silver Jubilee Celebration of International Mother Language Day".
Key Issues	Many languages are disappearing at an accelerated pace. 40% of the global population does not have access to education in a language they speak or understand.
Observances	Celebrated through poetry recitations, multilingual storytelling, and traditional music. Two-day event at UNESCO Headquarters, Paris, France. Observed as a national holiday in Bangladesh.
2025 Focus	The year 2025 marks the 25th anniversary, highlighting efforts to preserve linguistic diversity and promote mother tongues
Event Features	Technical dialogues, high-level sessions, cultural performances, and an exhibition celebrating global linguistic diversity.

International Mother Language Day 2025 Theme

International Mother Language Day 2025 theme is “Language Matter: Silver Jubilee Celebration of International Mother Language Day.” This year's theme is emphasising on showcasing the efforts of promoting linguistic diversity, protecting endangered languages and encouraging multilinguistic education.

International Mother Language Day History

International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by UNESCO in 1999 and has been observed annually since 2000. In 2002, the UN General Assembly officially recognized its significance.

The idea for this observance originated in Bangladesh, inspired by the 1952 Language Movement, where students in Dhaka protested against Urdu being imposed as the only state language of Pakistan. On February 21, 1952, several students lost their lives in the movement. To honor their sacrifice, UNESCO declared February 21 as International Mother Language Day, promoting linguistic diversity and multilingual education worldwide.

Since its inception, this day has been vital in advocating language rights and protecting endangered languages, ensuring that cultural and linguistic heritage is preserved for future generations.

What is Mother Language?

Mother Language is the native language of a person which they learn in early childhood. The mother language of a person helps in shaping one's personality and identity and helps make a deep connection with the traditions and heritage. Important facts about Mother Language include:

Studies have shown that individuals with multilingual and bilingual activities have better cognitive abilities and problem solving skills.
The most languages spoken globally are Arabic, English, Hindi, Mandarin Chinese.
There are 22 official languages in India.

International Mother Language Day 2025 Significance

International Mother Language Day 2025 highlights the significance of safeguarding languages and promoting multilingual learning. The International Mother Language Day 2025 is important because:

It promotes the use of mother tongue in schools to promote better learning and comprehension.
Advocates the revival of endangered languages and their revival.
Helps the communities to cherish and pass down their linguistic traditions.
Helps protect the linguistic rights of indigenous populations.

International Mother Language Day 2025 FAQs

Q1. Why is International Mother Language Day celebrated?

Ans. To promote linguistic and cultural diversity, as well as multilingualism.

Q2. When did UNESCO declare 21st February as International Mother Language Day?

Ans. In 1999 UNESCO declared 21st February as International Mother Language Day.

Q3. What is the theme for International Mother Language Day 2024?

Ans. "Multilingual education is a pillar of learning and intergenerational learning."

Q4. What is special about 21 February?

Ans. It is observed as International Mother Language Day to promote linguistic and cultural diversity.

Q5. Why is February 21 so important?

Ans. It commemorates the 1952 Bengali Language Movement in Bangladesh, where students protested for the recognition of their mother language.

Q6. What happened on 21 February 1952?

Ans. Students in Dhaka, Bangladesh, protested for the recognition of the Bengali language, leading to a tragic incident where several protesters lost their lives.