In 1993, the General Assembly of the United Nations decided that 15 May of every year should be observed as the International Day of Families.
In 1989, by resolution 44/82, the Assembly had proclaimed 1994 the International Year of the Family, to increase awareness of family issues and improve the capability of nations to tackle family-related problems with comprehensive policies.
This day is an occasion to promote awareness and better understanding of the social, economic and demographic processes affecting this important unit of society.