Wars fueled by imperialism, conflict zones, terrorism, and climate change not only deepen humanitarian crises but also damage the social fabric. In this regard, migration is not just a refugee crisis—it also means displaced families and children separated from their parents.

The destructive effects of the breakdown of the family structure on societies must not be overlooked. For global welfare and social justice, a strong family means a strong society and a sustainable working life.

In short, the family, which is the most fundamental unit of society, is currently being crushed under various pressures and is striving to preserve its existence amidst all these challenges. Aware of the irreversible consequences of this trend, the UN General Assembly declared in 1993 that May 15 of each year would be celebrated as the International Day of Families. Likewise, the International Labour Organization (ILO) continues to keep issues such as the protection of motherhood, the duration of paid maternity leave, paternity leave rights, and decent work on its core agenda.

In this context—where global efforts to strengthen the family are of great value—we, as the International Labour Confederation (ILC), place humanity, human dignity, labour, and global justice at the center of our vision.

On this May 15 – International Day of Families, we affirm that protecting the family, the foundation of society, is one of our core responsibilities.

We reiterate our commitment to international cooperation in the face of all economic and social assaults that weaken the family.

We celebrate the International Day of Families with all workers of the world, and emphasize the global solidarity of labour against the imperialist and capitalist system of exploitation that undermines the family.