UN Chinese Language Day is observed every year on April 20 to promote multilingualism, cultural diversity, and the equal use of official languages within the United Nations. The day honours Cangjie, who is traditionally credited with creating Chinese script, symbolising the deep historical roots of the language.
UN Chinese Language Day
Objectives of the Day
- Promote linguistic diversity within international institutions
- Encourage cultural exchange and understanding
- Strengthen the role of Chinese language in global governance
- Highlight the importance of equal representation of all UN official languages
Origin and Establishment
- Instituted in 2010 by the UN Department of Public Information
- Emerged from the broader initiative of International Chinese Language Day
- Promoted by Chinese scholar Chen Entian
- Objective:
- Promote multilingualism and cultural diversity
- Ensure equal usage of all six official UN languages
Historical Background
- Chinese has been one of the six official languages of the United Nations since 1946
- Initially, the day was celebrated on November 12 (2010)
- From 2011 onwards, it has been observed on April 20
- The date aligns with Guyu (Grain Rain) in the traditional Chinese calendar
Significance of April 20 (Guyu Festival)
- The day honours Cangjie
- According to legend:
- Cangjie was a historian of the Yellow Emperor
- He had four eyes and four pupils
- His invention of Chinese characters caused: Deities & spirits to cry and Millet to rain from the sky
- The Guyu festival is traditionally celebrated in China around April 20 in his honour
Evolution of Chinese Language at the UN
- 1946: Chinese recognized as an official language
- 1971: Restoration of People’s Republic of China representation in the UN improved usage
- 1973: Chinese adopted as a working language of the UN General Assembly
- 1974: Extended to the UN Security Council
- Today:
- Widely used across UN offices and operations
- Increasing number of staff working in Chinese