Language Day

International Mother Language Day 2018 was observed and celebrated on Wednesday (Feb 21). This year, the organisation commemorates the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states that no discrimination can be made on the basis of language. The purpose is to acquaint people with linguistic and cultural diversity and promote multilingualism.

It is unfortunate that Pakistan is still confronted with issues involving discrimination on the basis of language. In our country, language has become a tool that serves political gains. No work has been done to preserve cultural identity and make learning multiple languages easier. There is no doubt that people can express themselves clearly in their mother language instead any other acquired language because the flow of thoughts and ideas is smooth and one has no apprehension for its expression.

Naushaba Abid

Islamabad