UNESCO considers mother languages particularly special in providing the material with which the world is first voiced, the lens through which it is first understood. International Mother Language Day is a moment to recognize their importance and to mobilize for multilingualism and linguistic diversity. Through mother languages, UNESCO fosters linguistic diversity since they are essential to the identity of individuals. As sources of creativity and vehicles for cultural expression, mother languages are also important for the health of societies. Not least, languages are factors for development and growth. We know how important education in the mother language is for learning outcomes. In particular, UNESCO promotes instruction in mother language as a powerful way to fight discrimination and reach out to marginalized populations. As wellsprings of knowledge, languages are also starting points for greater sustainability in development, for managing more harmoniously our relationship with the environment and change.
The concept of mother language complements that of multilingualism, which UNESCO strives to promote, by encouraging the acquisition of at least three levels of language proficiency: a mother language, a national language and a language of communication.
Message from Ms Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO, on the occasion of International Mother Language Day, UNESCO, 21 February 2012