In 1993 the United Nations proclaimed that May 15 of every year shall be observed as the International Day of Families, and the year 1994 was proclaimed as the International Year of Families.
This was a response to changing social and economic structures, which have affected the structure and stability of families in many parts of the world. The International Day of Families provides an opportunity to reflect on the work started in 1994 and to raise awareness of issues relating to families, their recognition and protection, as well as to promote equality between men and women in the family, and to preserve traditional family values. Each year the United Nations declares an annual theme to celebrate this day. The 2014 theme for International Day of Families is “Families Matter for the Achievement of Development Goals”. At the same time, this year is the 20th anniversary of the International Year of the Family, which offers an opportunity to refocus on the role of families in development, family strengthening and sharing good practices in family policy making. 
Like every year, the International Day of Families will be marked by a number of events around the world. On this occasion in Belgrade, event “Games Without Frontiers” will be held on the sports ground of the Institute for Education of Children and Youth (219 Bulevar oslobodjenja street, entrance from Jove Ilica street). The Belgrade Children’s Shelter representatives, city authorities and many prominent figures will open the Games. Children from other homes, institutions and social welfare systems, as well as a number of associations of people with disabilities will take part in the event. It starts at 1 pm and is open for all who are willing to take part.
