The concept of sustainable development has been extensively developing since the middle of last century, as a result of the increasing pollution of the natural and social environment. Although three fundamental pillars of sustainable development are consisted of social, economic and environmental components, this article paper is addressed entirely to the social component of sustainable development, that is to examine some of the dimensions of sustainable family as a component of the social component of sustainable development. In the most previous studies of the social components of sustainable development attention was given to the factors and processes that contribute to meeting the basic needs of individuals and society, and in accordance with generally accepted civilization values such as freedom, security, equality, solidarity and maintaining cultural diversity. There is a lack of research of sustainable family in the context of the sustainable flows of social development.
Demographic changes in the family occurring during the twentieth century has strongly influenced the family structure and its functioning. Pluralization of family forms, lack of social support to families, as well as difficulties in the reconciliation of work and family roles, undermined the sustainability of modern families. The family relationships have a strong impact on the direction of child development and its functioning from an early age during the life cycle. The paper is based on the importance that the very principle of sustainability of the family is the foundation of sustainable society and sustainable future. Starting from the basic dimensions of family relationships, the focus of sustainable development should be directed towards strengthening the family, and creating family friendly micro and macro environment, especially when family cohesion is threatened.
Keywords: sustainable family, empowerment and family relationships, child development, sustainable society
