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Together For A Just World

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF FAMILIES

The dynamics of working life under the global capitalist system based on exp-
loitation are making the lives of parents increasingly difficult and exacerbating
poverty. Under this heavy burden, the institution of the family is becoming more
fragile day by day, and the deteriorating demographic indicators are taking a
central place on the agenda of states. The rising elderly population is increasing
the need for direct care services; meanwhile, the declining youth population is
making sustainability in this area more difficult.

Wars fueled by imperialism, conflict zones, terrorism, and climate change not
only deepen humanitarian crises but also damage the social fabric. In this re-
gard, 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 current-
ly being crushed under various pressures and is striving to preserve its exis-
tence 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 Internati-
onal 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.

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