Basic Information about IDFR
International Day of Family Remittances (IDFR) is an annual event observed on 16 June with an aim to recognize the significant financial contribution migrant workers make to the well-being of their families back home and to the sustainable development of their countries of origin.
Observed on: June 16
Organized by: UN
Introduced in: 2015 (First Observation)
Observed: Worldwide
About International Day of Family Remittances (IDFR)
Family remittances are money transfers made by people living abroad or away from family to family members in their home country.
Every year June 16 is observed as International Day of Family Remittances (IDFR). Aim of this observation is to recognize the significant financial contribution migrant workers make to the well-being of their families back home and to the sustainable development of their countries of origin. It is observed as part of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
UN Governing Council proclaimed June 16 as International Day of Family Remittances (IDFR) in February 2015. First IDFR was celebrated on June 16, 2015 at the opening of Fifth Global Forum on Remittances and Development in Milan.
This day is important as there is close relation between SDGs and remittances. It is a common global phenomenon that people have been moving from rural to urban areas, and across national borders in search of better opportunities. A large population of about 250 million are living outside their countries of origin for better opportunities. They send remittances, with the aim of giving their families the chance to remain home and addressing the root cause of their own migration. So the observance of IDFR is important.
Activities and Programs on International Day of Family Remittances
Many programs and activities are organizing as part of the observation. There is a remittance innovation award distributed on this day. Virtual sessions, discussions, and seminars to show the importance and role of remittance in social and sustainable development. Governments also realizing the importance of remittance to promote sustainable development. So programs that benefit migrants are also announcing on this day.