About
International Mother Language Day is observed globally each year on February 21st. This day was established by UNESCO in 1999 to promote linguistic diversity and multilingualism. It also serves to commemorate the Language Movement that took place in Bangladesh in 1952, a pivotal moment for Bengali language rights.
As an international observance, International Mother Language Day does not have a public holiday status in any single country. Consequently, government offices and businesses typically operate as usual, with no mandated closures.
Why it matters
The safeguarding of mother tongues is crucial for fostering individual identity and preserving unique cultural heritages. This observance draws attention to the ongoing challenges faced by many languages worldwide, including the risk of extinction.
By celebrating linguistic diversity, the day encourages greater understanding and tolerance among different communities. It underscores the importance of protecting unique intellectual traditions as a foundation for sustainable development and inclusivity worldwide.
Dates
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2021 | 2021-02-21 |
| 2022 | 2022-02-21 |
| 2023 | 2023-02-21 |
| 2024 | 2024-02-21 |
| 2025 | 2025-02-21 |
| 2026 | 2026-02-21 |
| 2027 | 2027-02-21 |
| 2028 | 2028-02-21 |