International Day of Mother Languages 21 February was proclaimed the International Mother Language Day by UNESCO on 17 November 1999. Its observance was also formally recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in its resolution establishing 2008 as the International Year of Languages. International Mother Language Day originated as the international recognition of Language Movement Day, which has been commemorated in Bangladesh (formerly East Pakistan) since 1952, when a number of Bangladeshi university students were killed by the East Pakistan police and army in Dhaka. International Mother Language Day is observed yearly by UNESCO member states and at its headquarters to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. UNSECO proclaimed 21 February International Mother Language Day to stress the importance of linguistic diversity and promote the use of mother languages. It is estimated that more than 50% of some 6,700 languages spoken in the world are threatened with extinction in the long term, and on the average of every two weeks, a language ceases to be spoken. According to experts, 96% of languages are spoken by only 4% of the population. This day will place special emphasis on the international standard-setting instruments related to multilingualism. Legal instruments such as the European Charter of Regional or Minority Languages and the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage will be examined.   "Rejecting Racism, Embracing Equality, Demanding Diversity"