(VOVworld) - United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said on International Day of Families that it is time to change social norms supporting male control over women and reinforce discrimination against vulnerable family members.

The UN chief added that equitable social and economic development depends on fair legal frameworks that support the rights of women and children. Marked worldwide on May 15^th, the theme of this year's International Day of Families “Men in Charge?” highlights the importance of gender equality and children's rights in contemporary families as more and more women are recognized as equal partners and decision-makers. The Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1993, reflecting the importance the international community attaches to families.