International Youth Day: date, history, meaning

International Youth Day is observed every year on 12 August to highlight the contribution of today’s youth to the development of society and to draw the attention of the international community to their problems. It is a day to recognise the potential of young people and to commit to making the future a better place for all.

International Youth Day: History

In 1965, the United Nations General Assembly launched a program to influence young adults. It endorsed the Declaration on the Promotion among Young People of the Ideals of Peace, Mutual Respect and Understanding among Peoples. It began devoting time and resources to empowering young people by recognizing emerging leaders and providing them with resources to help them solve global problems.

Later in 1999, the United Nations Global Compact approved the recommendation of the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth and, consequently, International Youth Day was established, which was initially commemorated on 12 August 2000.

International Youth Day The theme for 2020 was “Engaging Youth in Global Action” and for 2021 was “Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health”. The theme for 2022 was “Intergenerational Solidarity: Creating a World for All Ages”.

Last year, the theme of this day was “Green skills for youth: Towards a sustainable world”, which highlighted the importance of providing young people with the skills they need to contribute to a sustainable future.

International Youth Day: Importance

International Youth Day Youth Day has great significance. The occasion provides an opportunity to recognize and honor the inherent qualities of youth and acknowledge their potential to shape the destiny of nations. The day also serves as an important reminder of the challenges facing young people in the world, including educational challenges, limited access to healthcare, and economic instability, and encourages collaborative efforts to alleviate these difficulties.

The day also emphasizes the need to empower young people and provide them with sufficient resources for their growth.

To commemorate the day, the authority organizes various concerts, workshops and cultural events that allow young people to address their problems and achievements, as well as participate in activities that enhance their well-being and growth.

International Youth Day: How to celebrate it:

Attend an International Youth Day event, such as concerts, sporting events, and parades.
Learn more about this year’s DIY theme ‘From clicks to progress: youth digital pathways for sustainable development’.
Volunteer your time to help youth near you.
Communicate with organizations about the challenges facing young people.
Propose topics that revolve around the theme of the year.

Let’s make the world a better place.

Issue

This year, the United Nations theme for International Youth Day is “From clicks to progress: youth digital pathways to sustainable development”, which highlights the importance of digitalization in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).