The United Nations initiated International Youth Day in 1998 to highlight youth issues within the global community and celebrate the potential of youth as partners in our society. The day emphasizes that youth issues, such as access to education, economic opportunity, food security, a healthy environment, good governance, and freedom from all forms of tyranny and violence, are universal concerns. Youth are recognized as leaders and essential partners in addressing these challenges.
Significant progress has been made internationally in acknowledging the crucial role of youth as active contributors to a more just and peaceful future. In 2015, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted the Youth, Peace, and Security agenda. This agenda affirmed that meaningful and diverse participation of youth in peace processes is both a moral requirement and a security imperative. Additionally, UN Member States have acknowledged the importance of youth through the ongoing Summit of the Future process.
This year sees an unprecedented number of elections worldwide. President Biden remarked on the importance of strengthening transparent and accountable governance rooted in the consent of the governed as a fundamental imperative. When youth have platforms for meaningful participation in their societies, they can contribute fully and equally to creating a future that reflects their aspirations. The international community looks forward to supporting and uplifting the inspiring work of youth globally.
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