The International Mother Language Day was commemorated at the UN headquarters for the 8th consecutive year, organized jointly by the Permanent Missions of Bangladesh, Austria, Bahrain, Bolivia, Romania, and South Africa in collaboration with the UN Secretariat and UNESCO. Dennis Francis, President of the UN General Assembly, attended as the chief guest. The event included a multilingual discussion and cultural performances.
Ambassador Muhammad Abdul Muhith, Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the UN, paid homage to language martyrs and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. He acknowledged Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s role in UNESCO’s recognition of February 21 as the international mother language day and reiterated her call to make Bangla an official UN language. The importance of mother tongue-based education for quality and inclusive learning was emphasized.
The President of the UN General Assembly and other speakers appreciated Bangladesh’s leadership in celebrating the day, recognizing its role in proclaiming a day dedicated to mother languages. They highlighted the significance of mother tongue-based multilingual education for continuous learning and development. The event, attended by ambassadors, diplomats, UN officials, civil society, and the Bangladeshi community, featured interpretation in Bangla, Hindi, and Romanian. Cultural presentations included the theme song ‘Amar Bhai-er Rokte Rangano Ekushe February’ by the UN Chamber Music Society.
In the morning, the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh observed Martyrs Day and International Mother Language Day with solemnity. Wreaths were laid at the Shaheed Minar, and messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister were read out by mission officials.
