Each year on March 20, International Francophonie Day is celebrated throughout the world, especially in the 88 states and governments (61 members and 27 observers) representing over one billion people worldwide, including 300 million French speakers.
“La Francophonie” promotes the shared values of respect for the rule of law and human rights; gender equality; solidarity and cultural diversity; and a central place for women, youth and the vulnerable in its work.
In addition, the missions organized a weeklong series of cultural events including film screenings, poster competitions, debates and more as part of the Francophonie week.
The International Day of La Francophonie was inaugurated in 1988 as a reminder of the creation of La Francophonie’s institutional framework, a place for solidarity between French-speaking countries and a renowned actor in international relations.
These activities allow Francophonie countries to showcase their commitment to shared values and language and to strengthen cooperation networks with partners who promote all areas where they have common objectives including culture, commerce, human rights, etc, said a press release.
The International Day of La Francophonie is celebrated well beyond the Francophone world.
Bangladesh is among the more than 100 countries on five continents where celebrations are held.