For more than 20 years, International Youth Day has recognized the role of young people in creating positive social change. Today is a day to celebrate the achievements of youth, promote their rights and voices, and address the unique challenges they face.
This year, as the world responds to the global climate crisis and shifts towards environmental sustainability UN secretary-General António Guterres says:
“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.”
Under the theme of “Celebrating Ways #YouthLead as Agents of Change for the Global Goals” the Office of the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth will mark International Youth Day with a campaign focused on showcasing young people’s resilience, resourcefulness and leadership when it comes to creating a better world for all.
Fun Facts! Did you know?
- Half of the people on our planet are 30 or younger, and this is expected to reach 57% by the end of 2030.
- Survey shows that 67% of people believe in a better future, with 15 to 17 year-olds being the most optimistic about this.
- The majority of people agree that the age balance in politics is wrong. More than two thirds (69%) of people across all age groups agree that more opportunities for younger people to have a say in policy development/change would make political systems better.
- Globally, only 2.6% of parliamentarians are under 30 years old, and less than 1% of these young MPs are women.
Source: Be seen, be heard campaign