The 1st of June marked the Global Day of Parents, designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 as an annual occasion to honour parents worldwide for their commitment to children, and to recognise the role of the family in the nurturing and protection of children.

The day gains extra significance this year, as families bear the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic, with parents caring for out-of-school children and, at the same time, continuing their work responsibilities. By introducing family-friendly policies and practices, such as flexible hours, remote working and job sharing, employers can empower parents to safeguard their children’s well-being and minimise the disruptions brought to their life.

Find out more about the steps employers can take amid COVID-19 by reading this guide published by the United Nations Children’s Fund, the International Labour Organization, and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women.

• More about the Global Day of Parents
• More about the guide