“Leaving No One Behind Means Leaving No Family Behind”

13.05.2016 - Families remain at the centre of social life ensuring the well-being of their members, educating and socialising children and youth and caring for young and old.

“Children thrive when they receive love as well as healthcare, education and other basics,” said United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in a statement. “During the sensitive time of adolescence, young people need emotional support along with reproductive health information and services. Young lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender people suffer much higher suicide rates than the general population, making their safety and acceptance a matter of public health.”

“In many societies, women and girls experience discrimination and violence within the family, which can have serious and lifelong effects on their health and wellbeing. Family life is also crucial to the health of older people, who stay active and healthy when their contributions are appreciated in the family and community.”

Families, in all forms, are at the forefront of the realisation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The central goals of the 2030 Agenda focus on ending poverty, promoting shared economic prosperity, social development and people’s well-being while protecting the environment.

From a policy perspective, taking families into account in the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals has the potential to speed up the achievements of many targets relating to individuals’ well-being.

In particular, family-oriented policies can contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals 1 to 5 relating to eradicating poverty and hunger; ensuring healthy lives and promoting of well-being for all ages; ensuring educational opportunities throughout the lifespan and achieving gender equality.

The theme of this year’s observance of the International Day of Families focuses on Sustainable Development Goal 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.

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UNRICs Related Links

· 2016 International Day of Families

· Secretary-General's Message for International Day of Families

Photo: Mr Hayata