Families: Agents and Beneficiaries of Development

The theme for 2000 was selected because of the fact that the year 2000 will mark the end of the Fourth United Nations Development Decade (1991-2000), and the year in which the United Nations General Assembly will hold a special session for an overall review and appraisal of the implementation of the outcome of the World Summit for Social Development.  The Copenhagen Declaration and Programme of Action highlight the role of families in development and social progress.

Message of the Secretary General
English | Français

Programme of Action of the World Summit for Social Development
Chapter 4: Social Integration

Social integration and family responsibilities

The family is the basic unit of society and as such should be strengthened. It is entitled to receive comprehensive protection and support.

In different cultural, political and social systems, various forms of the family exist. Marriage must be entered into with the free consent of the intending spouses, and husband and wife should be equal partners.

(a) Encouraging social and economic policies that are designed to meet the needs of families and their individual members, especially the most disadvantaged and vulnerable members, with particular attention to the care of children;

(b) Ensuring opportunities for family members to understand and meet their social responsibilities;

(c) Promoting mutual respect, tolerance and cooperation within the family and within society;

(d) Promoting equal partnership between women and men in the family.