August 12 Marks Int'l Youth Day

International Youth Day is observed  every year on August 12. The day celebrates the potential, accomplishments, and contributions of young people around the world. 

This special occasion also highlights their role as indispensable partners in building a promising future.

In his message on International Youth Day, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said: "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."

He also noted that achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can only happen if the world institutions and governments empower young people and work with them as equals.

Guterres continued: "Next month’s Summit of the Future is an opportunity to build global problem-solving mechanisms that are more networked and inclusive."

In the same context, he called on the world 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," he concluded.