Women are becoming recognised as equal decision-makers in families and, therefore, ensuring a conducive environment for the full and harmonious development of children.

In a statement to mark the International Day of Families, the United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon, said: "Yet in too many countries, discrimination against women and disregard for children's right remain built into family laws and government policies and prevailing social norms often condone and justify many discriminatory practices."

The day is under the theme; "Men in Charge - Gender Equality and Children's Rights in Contemporary Families."

The statement said discrimination and neglect often led to violence, threatening women and children's health and limiting their chances to complete education and fulfill their potentials.

It also noted that the cycle tended to continue into the next generation as children experiencing violence were more likely to resort to violence in their adult lives.

"Equitable social and economic development depends on fair legal frameworks and social norms that support the rights of women and children," the statement said.

It said discriminatory laws and practices that did not give equal rights to all and that suppressed women and children's rights had no place in contemporary families, communities, societies and nations.

The statement said: "On this day let us resolve to change legal and social norms that support male control over women, reinforce discrimination and prevent the elimination of violence against vulnerable family members".

It said as the world shaped a new sustainable development agenda and was striving for dignity for all, nations should stand united for women's rights in families and societies at large.