What is the International Day of Family Remittances?

The International Day of Family Remittances is held globally each year on June 16. The day recognizes the financial contributions of over 200 million migrant workers who send money to support their families in their home countries. These remittances reach around 800 million people, helping to reduce poverty, improve education, and strengthen local economies.

This observance shines a light on the value of these financial flows for low and middle-income countries. It also honors the hard work and sacrifices of migrant workers and their role in global development.

History and Origin

The International Day of Family Remittances was first celebrated in 2015 during the Global Forum on Remittances and Development in Milan, Italy. The idea was to raise awareness about the vital role remittances play in the lives of millions around the world.

In 2018, the United Nations General Assembly officially endorsed the observance, giving it global recognition. Since then, the day has served as a platform for dialogue among governments, financial institutions, and development organizations. The focus is always on increasing access to affordable, secure remittance channels and supporting the families who depend on them.

Each year, the observance aligns with global development goals. It also aims to make the flow of money between migrants and their families safer, cheaper, and more effective.

Who participates in the International Day of Family Remittances?

• Migrant workers: Send money home to support their families and communities.
• Remittance recipients: Use funds for food, school, healthcare, and investment.
• Governments: Promote policies to reduce transfer costs and improve financial access.
• Banks and mobile services: Offer secure and affordable remittance channels.
• Nonprofits and UN agencies: Raise awareness and advocate for fair systems.

Slogans and Themes

Slogans include “Remittances: Resilience in Action,” “Choose Digital. Build Inclusion,” and “Supporting One Billion Dreams.” Each year brings a new theme. Topics have included digital transformation, financial access, and the resilience of migrant families during crises.

The themes focus on real-world impact, especially in rural areas where remittances are often the only lifeline. They also stress how remittances contribute to national economies and help achieve long-term development.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors

• Blue: Stands for reliability, trust, and cross-border support.
• Green: Represents economic growth and sustainability.
• Gold: Reflects the value of labor and sacrifice.

Symbols

• Currency icons: Represent the financial support sent across borders.
• Family silhouettes: Show the emotional and practical ties between migrants and loved ones.
• Globe imagery: Highlights the global nature of remittance flows.

Patterns

• Arrows in motion: Represent financial movement and connection.
• Connected dots: Indicate digital and mobile money pathways.
• Handshake motifs: Symbolize trust between senders and recipients.

Most Used Hashtags

• #FamilyRemittances
• #RemittanceDay
• #MigrantWorkers
• #FinancialInclusion
• #DigitalRemittances

How do you celebrate the International Day of Family Remittances?

• Share real stories: Post testimonies from migrants or recipients to show impact.
• Join or host a webinar: Discuss remittance trends, technology, or policy.
• Use digital tools: Highlight the benefits of secure and affordable transfer options.
• Support migrant-friendly services: Promote financial institutions with inclusive practices.
• Spread awareness online: Use the hashtags to educate and engage others.

Why is the International Day of Family Remittances important?

Remittances are more than just money. They provide stability for families and create ripple effects in entire communities. In many developing nations, remittances make up a large part of the economy and are often more reliable than foreign aid or investment.

Migrant workers send a portion of their hard-earned wages across borders, often under difficult conditions. Their commitment deserves recognition. This day encourages better systems, fairer fees, and more secure platforms to ensure that every dollar sent can reach its destination safely and with dignity.

By honoring this day, we recognize the essential role of migration in development. We support not only those who send money, but also those who depend on it to survive and thrive.