International Youth Day 2026; August 12th.

FORUM: "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations." International Youth Day 2026. Today, we recognize that while young people’s lives are shaped by different national and local realities, their aspirations are remarkably similar. Across countries and communities, young people seek dignity, opportunity, meaningful participation, decent work, quality education, and a sustainable future. This year’s theme places particular attention on young people living in Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), who often experience overlapping challenges linked to poverty, climate change, geographic isolation, limited economic opportunities, and unequal access to digital technologies. At the same time, these young people continue to demonstrate resilience, leadership, and innovation in advancing sustainable development within their communities and beyond. Although young people experience different realities depending on where they live, many of today's most pressing challenges transcend borders. Limited access to quality education, barriers to decent work, unequal digital connectivity, climate change, social exclusion, and concerns about mental well-being affect millions of young people worldwide. These challenges are often most acute in LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS, where structural constraints—including limited fiscal space, geographic isolation, climate vulnerability, and infrastructure gaps—can reduce opportunities for youth. Yet young people in these countries are also leading innovative solutions through entrepreneurship, digital technologies, community action, climate adaptation, and social innovation. The 2026 theme emphasizes that recognizing different contexts should strengthen—not diminish—global solidarity. By investing in youth everywhere and supporting those facing the greatest barriers, the international community can help ensure that no young person is left behind.

The 2026 Sub-themes are about:

Global Solidarity: Sustainable development and youth development are shared responsibilities. This sub-theme highlights the importance of international cooperation, partnerships, and equitable access to opportunities and resources that enable young people everywhere to thrive.
Shared Challenges: Young people across countries increasingly face interconnected challenges related to education, employment, climate change, digital inclusion, and mental well-being. This sub-theme encourages dialogue and collective responses informed by young people's lived experiences.
Youth Innovation: Young people are developing practical and creative solutions to local and global challenges. From climate action and digital entrepreneurship to community-led initiatives and social innovation, youth continue to demonstrate leadership even in resource-constrained settings. This sub-theme celebrates their contributions while promoting opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.

On this occasion, we celebrate also the young people around the world who are turning ideas into action, building businesses, creating opportunities and driving change in their communities. Through our global youth entrepreneurship community, we are proud to connect and support young entrepreneurs on their journeys. With The hashtags #InternationalYouthDay, we celebrate the young entrepreneurs showing us what hashtag #YouthLead looks like in action — and the creativity, ambition and leadership they bring to building a better future.

 Statement from Mr. Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General, UN DESA on International Youth Day 2026; August 12th.

On this International Youth Day, I'm delighted to join you in celebrating the vital contribution of the young people whose ideas, energy, and determination are driving progress towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient world.

This year's theme, different context, common aspirations, reflects a simple but powerful truth. While the young people's lives are shaped by diverse local realities, their aspirations for dignity, opportunity, participation, and sustainable future are also shared across the borders. Many young people continue to face barriers to education, employment, digital connectivity and opportunity.
Yet, we also see a generation that is innovating, adapting, and leading change in the communities around the world. 

This year's observance highlights three priorities. 

First, global solidarity. Expanding opportunities for young people requires a stronger international cooperation, investment, and partnerships.

Second, shared challenges. Issues such as inequality, climate change, education, employment, digital access, and mental health transcend borders and demand collective solutions.

Third, use innovation. Across the all regions, young people are developing climate solutions, building businesses, and using technology to strengthen the layer communities.

The 2025 world summit for social development in Doha reaffirmed the importance of the inclusive people centered development. As we build on that commitment, we must continue investing in young people and creating the conditions for them to succeed through its work that on sustainable development, social inclusion and youth employment. My department at the UN Desert remains committed to supporting young people and expanding opportunities for them to thrive. Young people are not waiting for change.

They are leading changes. Our responsibility is to ensure that they have the opportunities, resources, and support they need to shape a better future for all. Thank you.

Mr. Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General, UN DESA. 

EVENTS: On August 12th, The main observance of the International Youth Day 2026 will be held. 

The United Nations will commemorate International Youth Day 2026 on 12 August through an online campaign inviting young people worldwide to share messages of hope, support, and collaboration, with particular attention to youth living in LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS. The observance provides a platform for governments, youth organizations, United Nations entities, civil society, academia, and other stakeholders to promote dialogue, strengthen partnerships, and showcase youth-led initiatives that contribute to more inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable societies.You can read the full concept note  and Register to participate!

This celebration of youth convenes hundreds of young people from around the world who are eager to make the world a better place. Hosted at the United Nations World Health Organization, young people, dignitaries, leaders, educators, activists and champions of sustainable development are gathering to explore the theme of “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.” Watch the celebration of International Youth Day 2026: Different Contexts, Common Aspirations organized by the UNITAR

COMMUNICATION MATERIALS: In support of the 2026 theme, DESA is preparing a set of products to amplify youth voices and inspire action at all level. These products are available in a Trello Board and include:Digital cards designed for dissemination by youth networks, Member States, and UN agencies to increase outreach and engagement

• Infographic that brings together key facts, insights, key messages and initiatives.
• Video messages from UN leadership
• Logos for UN entities and non-UN entities

Promotional resources, including digital cards, infographics, and video messages, will be made available to encourage broad participation.

HOW GET INVOLVED!

Everyone has a role to play in supporting young people and creating opportunities that allow them to thrive. Join the conversation with the hashtag: #YouthDay by participating in International Youth Day activities, sharing youth-led initiatives, engaging with the digital solidarity campaign, and using your platforms to amplify young voices and promote inclusive, sustainable development. Together, we can recognize that while young people live in different contexts, they share common aspirations—and that achieving those aspirations requires collective action and global solidarity.

International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.

FORUM: “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond." International Youth Day 2025. The theme places a strong emphasis on the transformative role of young people in the localization of the SDGs, translating the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into local realities. This theme recognizes that young people are not merely beneficiaries of development, but are active agents of change, innovation, and leadership. It acknowledges the need for youth inclusion in local governance processes, as their creativity, energy, and community knowledge are essential for addressing the complex and interconnected challenges of our time. Over the past decade, global institutions have increasingly acknowledged that the achievement of the SDGs by 2030 depends on how effectively they are localized—translated into concrete actions at the community level. Recent reports by UN-Habitat and the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) revealed that at least 65 per cent of SDG targets relate directly to the mandates of local and regional governments (LRGs). Consequently, there is a growing imperative to empower youth as partners in SDG localization processes, as they are often deeply embedded in their communities and possess unique insights into local development needs. Localizing the SDGs refers to the process of adapting and implementing the global goals within specific local contexts, aligning them with community needs while maintaining consistency with national and international commitments. This approach is vital to ensure that development is inclusive, participatory, and sustainable. When young people are empowered to engage in this process, they become catalysts for innovation and resilience in their communities. The theme of 2025 IYD is deeply aligned with the World Programme of Action for Youth (WPAY), which sets a policy framework and practical guidelines for national action and international support to improve the situation of young people. As the WPAY approaches its 30th anniversary, the 2025 IYD theme offers a timely opportunity to renew commitment to its principles, particularly those emphasizing youth agency, youth engagement in decision-making, and sustainable development. Indeed, the WPAY provides a vital framework for guiding and advancing youth contributions to development processes. By aligning SDG localization efforts with the objectives of the WPAY, countries can promote their role as key partners in sustainable development, and ensure their inclusion in designing, implementing and evaluating policies that directly affect their communities. SDG localization supports the WPAY by enabling young people to take ownership of the development agenda, turning the global goals into localized actions that reflect their unique challenges and aspirations.

Building on this foundation, 2025 IYD connects with new global commitments such as the Pact for the Future and the Declaration on Future Generations, which emphasize the importance of youth in shaping a fairer, more equitable and sustainable world. The Pact calls for “meaningful youth engagement, recognizing young people as agents of change and essential partners in achieving sustainable development”. Similarly, the Declaration affirms “the duty to ensure that the interests and needs of future generations, including today’s children and youth, are reflected in public policy and decision-making at all levels”. Localizing the SDGs through youth-led efforts ground the goals of the Pact and Declaration—making them real in the places young people live and lead. The upcoming Second World Summit on Social Development (Doha, Qatar, November 2025) also presents a key opportunity to spotlight youth-led actions on social development and strengthen their role in shaping inclusive social policies. Local youth actions are not isolated activities; they are integral to broader efforts to achieve national development plans and the SDGs. By highlighting and supporting these initiatives, the international community can help bridge the gap between top-down policy frameworks and bottom-up implementation, thus ensuring that no one is left behind.

The 2025 IYD will serve as a strategic platform to: 1. Recognize youth as key local development partners: • Elevate the visibility of youth-led initiatives and their impact on SDG implementation. • Raise awareness about the WPAY and its role in recognizing the youth as local development partners. • Celebrate young people as innovators, leaders, and mobilizers within their local contexts. 2. Promote policy coherence and institutional support for local youth initiatives: • Encourage governments to integrate youth-led initiatives into local development frameworks and decision-making processes. • Promote the integration of youth development goals within local development strategies, drawing from the WPAY’s framework and the Pact for the Future and the Declaration on Future Generations • Advocate for inclusive policy environments that facilitate youth participation in governance. 3. Encourage multi-stakeholder collaboration: • Foster partnerships between youth and youth-led organizations, local governments, civil society, the private sector, academia, and UN agencies. • Promote knowledge sharing and joint problem-solving to enhance the effectiveness of local SDG implementation. • Leverage technology and innovation to connect youth across regions and facilitate collaboration. 4. Showcase youth stories and solutions: • Provide platforms for youth to share their personal experiences, insights, and innovations. • Use storytelling as a tool to amplify youth voices and promote peer learning. • Document and disseminate lessons learned from youth-led localization projects.

Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #12August, #InternationalYouthDay, #Youthday, #Greenskills.

EVENTS: On August 12th at 9:00 (EST), The global observance of the International Youth Day 2025 will take place in Nairobi, Kenya, hosted in collaboration with UN-Habitat, a key partner of DESA and a leading advocate for sustainable urban development and SDG localization. The event will bring together youth leaders, policymakers, municipal officials, academics, development practitioners, and UN representatives to explore strategies for enhancing youth engagement in local development. Planned activities include: • Interactive Dialogue: The event will feature an interactive dialogue between youth and other decision-makers. Topics will cover urban planning, climate resilience, social inclusion, innovation, and digital transformation, all through a youth lens. • Youth Innovation Showcase: Youth organizations and social enterprises will have the opportunity to exhibit their work both in the community and at the UN compound. • Commemoration of 2025 IYD which will include youth, UN and government represenatives. The commemoration will be held in person on the UN compound and virtually, ensuring global participation of youth and youth partners. Knowledge products developed include: • Infographics: Visual tools that present data and analysis on the contributions of youth to SDG localization. Designed to inform policy discussions and advocate for greater youth involvement. • Youth storytelling series: A multimedia collection featuring short films, podcasts, and blog posts. These stories will reflect diverse youth experiences in implementing the SDGs at the local level. • Social media engagement package: A ready-to-use digital toolkit that includes infographics, video messages (e.g., from the UN Secretary-General or DESA’s USG), and sample content. Designed for dissemination by youth networks, Member States, and UN agencies to increase outreach and engagement. The Youth Unit Programme encourages youth around the world to organize activities to raise awareness about the situation of youth in their country. Read the concept note and Register to participate!

On August 12th, to mark International Youth Day and as part of the Women and Youth Democratic Engagement Initiative (WYDE), the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is hosting an empowerment briefing for Young MPs to access peer-to-peer support, empowerment networks and initiatives. Despite increased acknowledgement from parliaments of the importance of youth participation in political decision-making, the number of sitting Young MPs remains unrepresentative. This webinar entitled ''Youth Political empowerment'' will showcase youth platforms, exchange country-level experiences of youth networks and identify better opportunities for youth to be heard in the political community. Register to attend!

On August 8th 2025, the UNITAR High-level panel discussion to mark the International Youth Day 2025 entitled "Youth Advancing Multilateral Cooperation Through Technology and Partnerships," will highlight the vital role young people play in redefining multilateral diplomacy. This year's observance, organized in collaboration with UNITAR and AFS Intercultural Programs and the Permanent Mission of Malta to the UN, provides a dynamic platform for young leaders, policymakers, diplomats, innovators, and civil society actors to engage in meaningful conversations on how technology and partnerships can strengthen global cooperation. Open to all through public registration, the event will encourage diverse participation, ensuring that voices from various backgrounds contribute to shaping a more connected and collaborative world. In today’s rapidly evolving global landscape, youth are emerging as key drivers of change, harnessing the power of technology and strategic partnerships to address pressing international challenges. By 2030, the youth population is projected to comprise 57 percent of the global demographic, underscoring the urgent need to empower young people with meaningful roles indecision-making and global governance. This demographic shift positions youth not only as beneficiaries of multilateral policies but as essential partners in shaping them. The theme for International Youth Day 2025, "Youth Advancing Multilateral Cooperation Through Technology and Partnerships," highlights the vital role young people play in redefining multilateral diplomacy. By leveraging digital tools and fostering cross-sector collaborations, youth are not only amplifying their voices but also facilitating inclusive, impactful dialogue across nations, cultures, and institutions. Digital platforms empower young people to transcend national boundaries, enabling real-time collaboration on global challenges such as climate change, health crises, and economic disparity. Through initiatives like virtual hackathons, open-source development, and cross-border social media campaigns, youth are not only raising awareness but also co-creating innovative solutions with youth across continents. Their digital fluency allows them to participate in global dialogues previously limited to diplomats and policymakers, positioning them as active stakeholders in shaping multilateral agendas. Youth-run digital platforms are being used to mediate conflict and promote intercultural understanding in regions of unrest. By embedding technology into the fabric of multilateral cooperation, and by forming dynamic alliances across sectors, the youth are not just participants, they are architects of a more collaborative and innovative global order.

Objectives 1. Highlight and empower the role of youth as active participants and leaders in international decision-making processes. 2. Explore how digital innovation enables youth to transcend geographical boundaries and foster effective diplomatic relations. 3. Encourage collaboration between youth, governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector to address global challenges. 4. Create a space where diverse perspectives are shared, promoting equity, mutual understanding, and cooperative action. 5. Motivate participants to develop initiatives and partnerships that continue beyond the event, contributing to long-term global cooperation.

Expected Outcomes 1. Enhanced understanding of how youth-led technological initiatives and partnerships can influence multilateral diplomacy. 2. New connections formed among youth, institutions, and stakeholders, fostering future joint efforts. 3. Encouragement of young participants to take active roles in diplomatic and global governance spaces. 4. Compilation of key discussion points and recommendations to be shared with relevant organizations and participants for continued engagement.

SPEAKERS ● 3:30 - 3:35 pm - Welcome: Yumna Khan, Director of the Youth Assembly and Strategic Youth Initiatives, AFS ● 3:35 - 3:40 pm - Introduction: Daniel Obst, President and CEO, AFS ● 3:40 - 3:50 - Remarks: H.E. Mr. Philemon Yang, President of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (pending) ● 3:50 - 3:55 pm - Remarks: Mr. Felipe Paullier, Assistant Secretary General for Youth Affairs, UN Youth Office (video) ● 3:55 - 4:05 pm - Remarks: Permanent Mission of Malta to the UN ● 4:05 - 4:15 pm - Remarks: Mr. Samim Hamidy, UNITAR ● 4:15 - 4:25 pm - Mr. Eliot Minchenberg, Director, New York Office & Representative to the United Nations, UNESCO (invited) ● 4:25 - 4:30 pm - Youth Remarks: Ms. Daphne Frias, Youth Advocate, Box The Ballot, Forbes 30 under 30 ● 4:30 - 4:35 pm - Remarks: Ms. Azza Karam, Founding President and CEO of Lead Integrity ● 4:35 - 4:45 pm - Remarks: Ms. Jennie Magiera, Global Head of Education Impact at Google YOUTH PANEL SPEAKERS 4:45 - 5:55 pm ● Moderator: Ali Mustafa, AFS Intercultural Programs ● Daphne Frias, Youth Advocate, Box The Ballot, Forbes 30 under 30 ● Shah Chowdhury, Co-Founder and President, Footsteps Bangladesh ● Ilan Enverga, Youth Representative on the UNESCO SDG4 High-Level Steering Committee and Founder & CEO of Global Changemaker Schools ● Dana Al Anzy, Qatar Youth Ambassador, AFS International Board of Trustees Member ● Yugratna Shirawastwa, Co-Chair Major Group of Children and Youth. Read the Concept note and Watch the celebration of the International Youth Day 2025!



STATEMENTS:

Statement by the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.

On International Youth Day, we celebrate the determination, creativity and leadership of young people everywhere.
This year's theme – Local Youth Action for the SDGs and Beyond – reminds us that global progress begins in communities. And in every corner of the world young people are leading the way.

They are driving sustainable development, building more inclusive communities, forging peace, and demanding a fairer, greener and more just future.

Young people are bold innovators, resilient organizers, and essential partners in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

This year also marks a renewed commitment to the World Programme of Action for Youth – a recognition that when young people lead, societies thrive.

To every young person: your voice, ideas and leadership matter.

Let us work together to support youth-led solutions and build a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world, from the ground up.

António Guterres,United Nations Secretary-General.

Statement from UN DESA Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.

Dear friends, today on International Youth Day, we celebrate young people who are driving change in their communities and advancing sustainable development goals.

This year's the same local youth actions for the SDGs and beyond reminds us that meaningful change starts in our local communities. Over the 65% of the SDG targets are linked to the policies and services delivered by the local and regional governments. Empowering youth where they live is not just beneficial, it is essential. Young people process an intimate understanding of their community's needs and are uniquely equipped to design the solutions that resonate. By empowering young people, we unlocked a powerful and effective force for sustainable development, shifting towards a more inclusive and participatory processes, amplifying diverse voices, building trust and delivering lasting solutions.


Young people are already leading the way, tackling local challenges and demonstrating sustainable development in practice. Young people are also actively engaged in the key UN platforms to advance sustainable development.

At the annual ECOSOC youth forum, the UN's largest intergovernmental gathering with young people, leaders from around the world shared invaluable ground level experiences and shaped global policies.
At the internet governance forum, youth voices have been instrumental in promoting an open and inclusive digital space highlighting the role of a digital technology in achieving sustainable development. Young people also played a critical role at the recent conferences supported by UN DESA including the third UN ocean conference and the fourth international conference on financing for development showing their impact across a wide range of sustainable development issues.

At the UN, we are very much looking forward to having impactful contributions in the process leading up to the second world summit for social development to be held in Doha later this year.
As we mark the 30th anniversary of the world programme of the action for youth, we have a pivotal opportunity to deepen our commitment to ensuring young people are fully included as equal partners, particularly at the local level.
By championing young change makers, let us build a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for all.
Happy International Youth Day.

Mr. Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General, UN DESA.

OTHER STATEMENTS:

• Statement by the President of the United Nations General Assembly on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.
• Statement from the ILO Director General, Gilbert F. Houngbo on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.
• Statement by the UNFPA Executive-Director; Dr. Natalia Kanem’ on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.
• Statement by the UN-Habitat on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.
• Statement by the ITU on International Youth Day 2025; August 12th.

PUBLICATION: The Youth2030 Phase 2 (2025–2030) presents a comprehensive Strategic Priorities and Results Framework, charting a bold path forward to intensify impact and drive transformative change with and for young people worldwide. Launched in 2018 by the UN Secretary-General, Youth2030 — the UN Youth Strategy — is the umbrella framework guiding the UN system’s work with and for youth. Now, over six years into its implementation, acceleration is needed at all levels to meet the strategy’s goals. The report focuses on accelerating the implementation of Youth2030 at the global, regional, and national levels. Read the full Youth2030 Phase 2 (2025–2030) report!

LIVESTREAM: High-level Event organized bty the UNITAR to mark the International Youth Day 2025; The theme for International Youth Day 2025, "Youth Advancing Multilateral Cooperation Through Technology and Partnerships," highlights the vital role young people play in redefining multilateral diplomacy.This year's observance, organized in collaboration with UNITAR and AFS Intercultural Programs, provides a dynamic platform for young leaders, policymakers, diplomats, innovators, and civil society actors to engage in meaningful conversations on how technology and partnerships can strengthen global cooperation. Open to all through public registration, the event will encourage diverse participation, ensuring that voices from various backgrounds contribute to shaping a more connected and collaborative world. Get the Concept note!

International Youth Day 2024; August 12th.

FORUM: “Youth Digital Innovation for Sustainable Development." International Youth Day 2024. Digitalization is transforming our world, offering unprecedented opportunities to accelerate sustainable development. Digital technologies such as mobile devices, services, and artificial intelligence are instrumental in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Data generated from digital interactions supports evidence-based decision-making. With profound impact across economic, social and environmental dimensions, digital technologies and data contribute to at least 70% of the 169 SDG targets while potentially reducing the cost of achieving these goals by up to USD 55 trillion. Young people are leading the charge in digital adoption and innovation, with three-quarters of those aged 15 to 24 using the internet in 2022, a rate higher than other age groups. However, disparities persist, particularly in low-income countries and among young women, who often have less access to the internet and digital skills compared to their male counterparts. While there is an urgent need to enhance digital inclusion, youth are largely recognized as “digital natives,” using technology to drive change and create solutions. As the 2030 deadline for the SDGs approaches, the role of young people in digital innovation is essential for addressing global issues.The Youth Unit Programme encourages youth around the world to organize activities to raise awareness about the situation of youth in their country. Young people worldwide are agents of change, playing a key role in the achievement of the #GlobalGoals. On this Day, join us in celebrating the determination, ideas and leadership of young people as we pursue a better world.  Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #12August, #InternationalYouthDay, #Youthday, #Youthlead.

EVENTS: On August 12th at 9:00 (EST) from the UNHQ, New York; The Virtual celebration of the International Youth Day 2024 will be held. This year, the theme is “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” focusing on how young people drive digital technologies to advance progress toward achieving the SDGs. For this occasion, the UN DESA is partnering with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the UN-Habitat and the UN Internet Governance Forum (IGF). The official commemoration will take the form of a series of digital products, including case study infographics showcasing youth digital solutions for SDG acceleration. By celebrating the digital contributions of youth, we can inspire further innovation and collaboration towards achieving sustainable development. The theme highlights the key connection between digitalization and accelerating SDG progress, emphasizing the pivotal role of young people in this transformative process. Specifically, it aims to: 1. Explore the instrumental role of technologies and data in accelerating efforts towards achieving SDGs, including the role of young people in advancing digital transition. 2. Showcase diverse youth-led and focused digital solutions and innovations at the global and national levels that contribute to sustainable development. 3. Provide a knowledge base for stakeholders, such as youth, civil society, and national governments as well as relevant UN agencies, to access data and insights on the topics. Read the concept note!

To commemorate the day, the Department of Economic and Social affairs (DESA) will organize a global webinar in collaboration with the United Nations Global Initiative on Decent Jobs for Youth at International Labour Organization and Generation Unlimited to in celebrate the innovative digital solution by and for youth and their contributions to a sustainable future.

Open Call for Entry: Seize the opportunity to have your youth digital initiatives featured in the official International Youth Day 2024 product! Submit your innovative projects and contribute to showcasing the impactful role of young people in driving digital solutions for sustainable development; We invite you to submit your youth-led or youth-focused digital solutions that address the SDGs. Selected initiatives will be featured in the UN's official International Youth Day 2024 case study infographics and shared across UN communication channels.

Digital: The initiative must leverage digital technology in its implementation, promoting digital access and inclusion. Youth-Focus: The initiative should be led by youth and/or engage young people in its implementation process or outcomes. SDG Alignment: The initiative must address one or more of the Sustainable Development Goals. Impact: The initiative should demonstrate a measurable impact, showcasing positive results. Innovation: The initiative should present an innovative approach, highlighting unique solutions or methods.

We look forward to your entries! Your contributions are invaluable in showcasing the powerful role of young people in driving digital solutions for sustainable development in diverse contexts.

STATEMENTS:

Statement by the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on International Youth Day 2024; August 12th.

International Youth Day celebrates the power and potential of young people.

This year’s focus is on the pivotal role of youth in harnessing technology to advance sustainable development.

Around the world, young people are turning clicks into progress, making the most of digital tools to take on local and global challenges – from climate change to rising inequalities to the growing mental health crisis.

But achieving the Sustainable Development Goals requires a seismic shift – which can only happen if we empower young people and work with them as equals.

That means bridging digital divides, boosting investments in education, critical thinking and information literacy, tackling the gender biases that often dominate the tech industry, and supporting young innovators in expanding digital solutions.

As Artificial Intelligence reshapes our world, young people must also be front and centre in shaping digital policies and institutions.

Next month’s Summit of the Future is an opportunity to build global problem-solving mechanisms that are more networked and inclusive. I urge leaders to use the Summit to advance youth participation at every level, establish youth consultative bodies, promote intergenerational dialogue and scale up funding opportunities for young people everywhere.

You can count on the UN Youth Office and the entire UN family to stand with and for young people.

Together, let us draw on their energy and ideas to shape a more sustainable future for all.

António Guterres.

Statement from UN DESA Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua on International Youth Day 2024; August 12th.

Statement by the UN-Habitat on International Youth Day 2024; August 12th.

Statement by the ITU on International Youth Day 2024; August 12th.

Statement from Carol Roach, IGF Chair on International Youth Day 2024.

Statement from the ILO Director General, Gilbert F. Houngbo on International Youth Day 2024; August 12th.


Statement by the UNFPA Executive-Director; Dr. Natalia Kanem’ on International Youth Day 2024; August 12th.

International Youth Day 2023; August 12th.

FORUM: "Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World." International Youth Day 2023.

Today, the world is embarking on a green transition. The shift towards an environmentally sustainable and climate-friendly world is critical not only for responding to the global climate crisis but also for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A successful transition towards a greener world will depend on the development of green skills in the population. Green skills are “knowledge, abilities, values and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society”. These include technical knowledge and skills that enable the effective use of green technologies and processes in occupational settings, as well as transversal skills that draw on a range of knowledge, values and attitudes to facilitate environmentally sustainable decisions in work and in life. Due to their interdisciplinary nature, the essence of green skills is sometimes expressed, partly if not wholly, through other associated terms such as “skills for the future” and “skills for green jobs”. While green skills are relevant for people of all ages, they have heightened importance for younger people, who can contribute to the green transition for a longer period of time. The Programme encourages youth around the world to organize activities to raise awareness about the situation of youth in their country. What do we know about green skills for youth?. 

Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #12August, #InternationalYouthDay, #Greenskills4youth, #Youthday, #Greenskills.

Statement from the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on International Youth Day 2023; August 12th.

Every year, International Youth Day celebrates the determination, ideas and leadership of young people as we pursue a better world. Across all of today’s challenges, young people are calling for bold and accelerated action, standing in solidarity with the most vulnerable, and designing solutions to ensure social, economic and climate justice, and peace and prosperity for all. To expand their participation, I recently launched a policy brief calling for governments to make youth participation the norm, rather than the exception, across decisions and policies around the world. This year’s theme reminds us of the importance of ensuring young people gain and apply skills in the burgeoning green economy. From innovative sustainable technologies and renewable energy, to revolutions in transportation systems and industrial activity, young people must be equipped with skills and knowledge to shape a cleaner, greener, more climate resilient future. Humanity depends on the boundless energy, ideas and contributions of youth everywhere. Today and every day, let’s support and stand with young people in shaping a just and sustainable world, for people and planet.

Antonio Guterres.

 

OTHER STATEMENTS:

Statement from UN DESA Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua on International Youth Day 2023; August 12th.

EVENTS: Virtual celebration of the International Youth Day 2013 will be held on August 12th at UNHQ. 

Date: Sat, Aug 12 2023 | International Day
Location: Online, UN Headquarters, New York.

For the official commemoration of International Youth Day 2023, DESA organizes a global webinar in collaboration with the UN Global Initiative on Decent Jobs for Youth at International Labour Organization and Generation Unlimited. The webinar offers critical information and data and will promote discussions and an exchange of ideas on green skills for youth. It features perspectives from international organizations, national governments and young experts working in this area. Knowledge products were developed to support and encourage stakeholders to celebrate International Youth Day 2023 in their various contexts and roles (see below). Please find the webinar agenda here.

Download Bios of Speakers

The Permanent Mission of Malta to the United Nations, the Civil Society Unit, the Department of Global communications and AFS Intercultural programs welcome you to this year observance. In celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day, with the theme of Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World, this event will highlight the role of young people in coming together to amplify engagement and leadership in all areas of decision making and action, especially in creating an environmentally sustainable and climate friendly world.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED!
Think about what you can do in you community and how you can effectively spread the message. Make it fun and relatable and use all your channels to spread the message. Think Facebook, Twitter, university newsletters, local newspapers.

• Educational radio show. Contact popular local/national radio stations to request a slot to have a discussion with distinguished individuals and youth.
• Organize a (virtual) public meeting or debate to discuss young people’s contributions to global issues.
• Initiate round table discussions among adults and young people to promote intergenerational understanding.
• Organize a youth forum to exchange ideas and discuss cultural backgrounds in order to help young people accept others and popularize a culture of non-violence.
• Organize a (virtual) concert to promote International Youth Day and the launch of the Year. Invite your local musicians and combine it with a panel discussion or invite a politician or policy maker to hold the keynote speech.
• Create an “info point” about youth-related issues in the center of town/village, at high schools, or at university centers.
• Organize an exhibition. Get permission to use a public space for an arts exhibit, which showcases the challenges of young people today or how young people are contributing to development. Try to involve young people in the domains of culture, arts and music, to raise awareness on youth-related issues.
• Write to your Minister of Youth to inform him or her about the challenges young people face in their daily lives and to suggest solutions. A list of Ministers of Youth can be found at www.un.org/youth.

A variety of informational material, such as the logo for the International Year of Youth, will be made available on the International Youth Day Trello board, which will be made public ahead of International Youth Day. If you would like to use the logo for your event, read the guidelines for the logo and fill out the liability waiver form, which will also be made available for download.

COMMUNICATION MATERIALS: 5 Things To Know About Green Skills For Youth.

For those interested in organizing activities to celebrate 2023 IYD, logos in all 6 United Nations languages, both with and without the United Nations name are available here.

International Youth Day 2022; August 12th.

FORUM: “Intergenerational Solidarity: Creating a World for All Ages.” International Youth Day 2022.

This year’s IYD theme brings awareness to the important partnerships across all ages that are needed to advance sustainable democracy. Follow the conversation with thehashtags: #IntergenerationalSolidarity, #InternationalYouthDay, #youth, #12August.

To achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the world needs to leverage the full potential of all generations. Solidarity across generations is key for sustainable development. We must collaborate to foster successful and equitable intergenerational relations and partnerships to ensure “no one is left behind.” While intergenerational solidarity and concern for future generations is being called for in tackling global issues – with the UN Secretary-General recently putting forward new recommendations on renewed intergenerational solidarity, including in Our Common Agenda – many challenges remain.

Ageism continues to present a significant – yet, not sufficiently discussed – challenge to fostering collaboration and solidarity across age groups. The World Health Organization defines ageism as “the stereotypes (how we think), prejudice (how we feel) and discrimination (how we act) directed towards others or oneself, based on age”. Ageism is an insidious and often an unaddressed issue in health, human rights and development, and has bearings on both older and younger populations around the world. In addition, ageism regularly intersects with other forms of bias (such as racism and sexism) and impacts people in ways that prevent them to reach their full potential and comprehensively contribute to their community.

Statement by the U.N. Secreatry-General on International Youth Day 2022: August 12th.

Today, we celebrate International Youth Day, and the power of partnerships across generations.

This year’s theme — “Intergenerational Solidarity: Creating a World for All Ages” — reminds us of a basic truth: we need people of all ages, young and old alike, to join forces to build a better world for all.

Too often, ageism, bias and discrimination prevent this essential collaboration. When young people are shut out of the decisions being made about their lives, or when older people are denied a chance to be heard, we all lose.

Solidarity and collaboration are more essential than ever, as our world faces a series of challenges that threaten our collective future.

From COVID-19 to climate change, to conflicts, poverty, inequality and discrimination, we need all hands on deck to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and build the better, more peaceful future we all seek.

We need to support young people with massive investments in education and skills-building — including through next month’s Transforming Education Summit.

We also need to support gender equality and expanded opportunities for young people to participate in civic and political life.

It’s not enough to listen to young people — we need to integrate them into decision-making mechanisms at the local, national and international levels.

This is at the heart of our proposal to establish a new Youth Office at the United Nations.

And we need to ensure that older generations have access to social protection and opportunities to give back to their communities and share the decades of lived experience they have accumulated.

On this important day, let’s join hands across generations to break down barriers, and work as one to achieve a more equitable, just and inclusive world for all people.

U.N. Secretary-General.

EVENTS

Official Commemoration – Webinar

For International Youth Day 2022, DESA worked with the Major Group on Children and Youth (MGCY) to organize a global webinar for its official commemoration. The webinar features an exchange of views on the topic of intergenerational solidarity, intergenerational equity, future generations, and ageism.

CAMPAIGN: Enhancing the situation of young people around the world. 

Learn more about the International Youth Day and the History of Youth at the UN.