Republic of Mauritius- Vice-Prime minister appeals to families to instill their children with right values

Family, she said is an important pillar of the society and the very foundation of the Mauritian society. She attributed the development and advancement of the country to the values imparted by our ancestors, without which the country would not have prospered. It is the foremost duty of parents, grandparents, and the elders in a family to imbibe in their children the right moral values and to act responsibly in front of them as they will adopt these values and act accordingly, she said.  

She also raised the issues that weaken the foundation of a solid family namely: unequal treatment between boys and girls, lack of communication, working parents, and divorce amongst others. She stressed on the role of families to ensuring that there is no discrimination based on gender and to bring about a change in mindset by giving equal treatment, education and facilities to both boys and  girls.

Vice-Prime Minister, Fazila Jeewa-Daureeawoo, also lauded the works being carried out by Non Governmental Organisations and social workers which she said contribute to harmonious living in the country and encouraged the population to indulge in social work, thereby contributing to the advancement of a better society.

Speaking about the theme chosen by the United Nations “Families and Climate Action: Focus on SDG13”, she said that it has been rightly chosen as presently the world is facing harsh climate change conditions adding that very often it is families who are affected by these weather conditions. The theme, she said, will help families in combating climate change and its impacts for a sustainable society and  also reflect on the importance the international community attaches to families and their role in development.

International Day of Families

In 1993, the United Nations General Assembly decided, in a resolution (A/RES/47/237), that 15 May of every year should be observed as The International Day of Families.  This day provides an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to families and to increase the knowledge of the social, economic and demographic processes affecting families.

It has inspired a series of awareness-raising events, including national family days.  In many countries, this day is an opportunity to highlight different areas of interest and importance to families.