Event
Languages matter: Silver Jubilee Celebration of International Mother Language Day
UNESCO estimates that there are 8,324 languages, spoken or signed. Out of these, around 7,000 languages are still in use. However, linguistic diversity is under threat, with many languages disappearing at an accelerated pace in our rapidly changing world.
Learning in one’s mother tongue enhances comprehension, engagement, and critical thinking, particularly for marginalized communities, but 37% of learners in low- and middle-income countries lack this opportunity. Multilingual education addresses these gaps, boosting participation, retention, and socio-emotional development, while also supporting global goals like gender equality, climate action, and sustainable communities. UNESCO champions multilingualism as a powerful tool for inclusive education and meaningful global engagement.
In February, UNESCO will celebrate the 25th anniversary of International Mother Language Day, reaffirming the importance of linguistic diversity and multilingualism in fostering dignity, peace, and understanding. This milestone highlights decades of efforts to preserve mother tongues, safeguard cultural heritage, and improve education.
The "Languages matter: Silver Jubilee Celebration of International Mother Language Day" event will underscore the urgency of accelerating progress on linguistic diversity to build a more inclusive and sustainable world by 2030. It also supports the International Decade of Indigenous Languages, emphasizing the role of languages in achieving global development goals. The event will review progress, showcase successful multilingual education practices, and advocate for inclusive language policies that respect all communities.
The two-day event will feature technical dialogues (20 February), high-level sessions (21 February), cultural performances, and an exhibition celebrating global linguistic diversity, all accessible through live streaming and interpretation.
