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Motion · S6M-03205 · 11 Feb 2022

International Mother Language Day

Lodged by Foysol Choudhury Standard Motion 31 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament celebrates International Mother Language Day, on 21 February 2022, which is an annual, worldwide initiative to promote awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity, and to promote multilingualism; understands that this was an initiative that started in Bangladesh; acknowledges that it was first announced by UNESCO on 17 November 1999, and was formally recognized by the United Nations General Assembly with the adoption of UN resolution 56/262 in 2002; understands that International Mother Language Day is part of a broader initiative "to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by peoples of the world", as adopted by the UN General Assembly on 16 May 2007, in UN resolution 61/266, which also, it understands, established 2008 as the International Year of Languages; notes, with concern, reports that linguistic diversity is increasingly threatened as more and more languages disappear; understands that, globally, 40% of the population reportedly does not have access to an education in a language that they speak or understand;  further understands, however, that progress is being made in mother tongue-based multilingual education, and believes that there is a growing understanding of its importance, particularly in early schooling, and more commitment to its development in public life.

Supporters (31)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.