International Mother Language Day
International Mother Language Day on 21 February promotes linguistic and cultural diversity and learning in the language people know best.
- UK
- USA
- Ireland (not marked)
- Canada
- Australia (not marked)
- New Zealand (not marked)
- International
OrganiserUNESCO
ListingAdded by us from official sources
Last checked19 October 2026
First held1999
About the day
UNESCO proclaimed the day in 1999 and the UN General Assembly welcomed it in 2002. Around 40 per cent of learners worldwide are not taught in a language they fully understand.
2026 theme
Youth voices on multilingual education
The 2027 theme has not been announced yet.
Dates for the next three years
| Year | Date | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 | Sunday 21 February 2027 | UK, USA, International, Canada | Same date every year |
| 2028 | Monday 21 February 2028 | UK, USA, International, Canada | Same date every year |
| 2029 | Wednesday 21 February 2029 | UK, USA, International, Canada | Same date every year |
Where this information comes from
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