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On Int'l Day of Families, UN chief highlights gender equality, children's rights

Xinhua, May 16, 2015 Adjust font size:

UN Secretary General Ban Ki- moon on Friday stressed the importance of gender equality and children's rights in contemporary families in his message to mark the International Day of Families, which is observed on May 15 every year.

Under this year's theme, "Men in Charge? Gender Equality and Children's Rights in Contemporary Families," the UN chief recognized the important role played by women in families and in children's development.

"Around the world, more women are becoming recognized as the equal partners and decision-makers in families that they should be, thus helping to ensure a conducive environment for the full and harmonious development of children," Ban said.

Yet in too many countries, discrimination against women and disregard for children's rights remain built into family laws and government policies, and prevailing social norms often condone and justify many discriminatory practices, said Ban. This kind of discrimination and disregard has taken a social and economic toll.

"Discrimination and neglect often lead to violence, threatening women's and children's health and limiting their chances to complete education and fulfill their potential. The cycle tends to continue into the next generation, as children experiencing violence are more likely to resort to violence in their adult lives," Ban said.

Equitable social and economic development depends on fair legal frameworks and social norms that support the rights of women and children, the UN chief said.

"On this International day, let us resolve to change legal and social norms that support male control over women, reinforce discrimination and prevent the elimination of violence against vulnerable family members," Ban said.

The International Day of Families was set by the UN General Assembly in 1993, reflecting the importance that the international community attaches to families. Since then, it has become an occasion to raise awareness and shed light on key family issues. Endite