The linguistic landscape has undergone profound transformations in recent years, driven by waves of migration that blend cultures and by rapid technological advancements that bridge distances and facilitate cross-border communication. Alongside these shifts, societal awareness has grown regarding the cognitive and social benefits of mastering multiple languages. Against this backdrop, the world celebrates International Mother Language Day on February 21.
Cultural and Linguistic Diversity: A Pillar of Stable Societies
Linguistic diversity faces increasing threats as languages rapidly disappear, even though multilingual communities rely on their languages to preserve and transmit traditional knowledge sustainably. UNESCO places great importance on cultural and linguistic diversity as a cornerstone for building stable societies, highlighting the protection of linguistic differences to foster tolerance and mutual respect.
The idea of International Mother Language Day originated from Bangladesh and was adopted by UNESCO’s General Conference in 1999, with the celebration becoming an annual global event from 2000 onward to strengthen the linguistic identity of every nation.
Language as a Vital Bridge Beyond Communication
For today’s youth, language serves as a vital bridge beyond simple communication. It anchors cultural identity and empowers meaningful societal participation. Many young people are leading a global movement to revive endangered languages, leveraging technology and digital platforms to make multilingualism tangible and valuable online.
However, educational realities remain challenging. According to UNESCO, around 40% of learners worldwide are denied education in their mother tongue, disproportionately affecting indigenous youth, migrants, and minorities, thereby limiting equitable learning opportunities. Addressing this gap requires institutional support to complement youth-led digital efforts, ensuring comprehensive linguistic justice.
The digital revolution has enabled the integration of multiple languages into learning environments more efficiently and cost-effectively. Yet, many learners—particularly from marginalized or migrant communities—still face obstacles to quality education in languages they understand. Migration, both internal and international, has created more linguistically diverse classrooms, offering opportunities for communication and creativity but also posing real challenges for integration.
UNESCO 2026 Theme: “Youth Voices on Multilingual Education”
Education thrives when languages are preserved. Learning begins in the language of culture and homeland. In 2026, UNESCO celebrates International Mother Language Day under the theme: “Youth Voices on Multilingual Education”. The focus is on empowering youth to shape the future of languages—reviving, using, and passing them on to future generations to keep them alive across history.
UNESCO Director-General Dr. Khaled Al-Anani emphasized that linguistic diversity is foundational to peace, dignity, and inclusion, ensuring that no voice is lost from our shared human history.
Youth Engagement and Digital Initiatives
Ahead of the celebration, UNESCO organized an online event called “The Campus” on February 13, inviting students aged 13–18 from around the world to participate in English (with opportunities to write questions and comments in other languages). The event allowed youth to:
Share their experiences with language, learning, and wellbeing.
Explore how multilingual education fosters inclusion, confidence, and learning outcomes.
Interact with international experts and peers across UNESCO regions.
Identify practical steps to promote linguistic diversity in schools and communities.
The discussions were guided by UNESCO’s global initiative “Languages Matter,” emphasizing educational systems that recognize and value every learner’s language. The session was recorded and will be made available on UNESCO’s website during International Mother Language Day.
This celebration highlights how youth are pivotal in shaping the future of multilingual education and ensuring that every language—mother tongue or heritage language—remains a living part of human culture and knowledge.
Post a Comment