The theme for International Mother Language Day 2025 is “Languages Matter: Silver Jubilee Celebration.” This year marks the 25th anniversary of the observance, highlighting the significance of linguistic diversity, multilingual education, and efforts to preserve endangered languages. The theme reinforces the idea that languages are crucial in maintaining cultural identity, fostering inclusivity, and promoting global understanding.
International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by UNESCO in 1999 and has been observed every year on February 21 since 2000. The day originated from the Language Movement in Bangladesh, where people fought for the recognition of the Bengali language in 1952. This event remains a powerful symbol of linguistic and cultural rights worldwide.
As the world celebrates 25 years of International Mother Language Day, this milestone serves as an opportunity to reflect on progress in language preservation and multilingual education. It also encourages global communities to continue working toward protecting indigenous and minority languages, ensuring that every linguistic heritage is valued and sustained for future generations.
By promoting linguistic diversity and inclusion, International Mother Language Day strengthens the foundation for peaceful coexistence and cross-cultural dialogue across nations.