August 12, 2009 - Posted by Alex Goldman
Today is International Youth Day, a day designated by the United Nations to raise awareness of youth-related issues around the world.
In August 1998, the United Nations held a meeting of government officials to discuss "measures to promote the effective participation of youth in all spheres of society and in the decision-making processes at the national, regional and international levels." To raise greater awareness of youth-related issues, the U.N General Assembly passed a resolution on December 17, 1999, making August 12 International Youth Day. This year's theme is sustainability.
In 2007, young people made up 25 percent of the world's working-age population but accounted for 40 percent of the unemployed. Rates of unemployment among youth in developing countries are even higher and likely to increase due to the.
In his official statement for International Youth Day, U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon praised young people around the world for their advocacy of sustainability issues despite the many challenges they face:
"[Y]oung people have proven themselves to be key partners in sustainable development. They have gotten involved in international forums such as the Commission on Sustainable Development, and have helped their governments and communities to formulate poverty reduction strategies, entrepreneurial schemes and many other policies and initiatives.
"Young people often lead by example: practicing green and healthy lifestyles, or promoting innovative uses of new technologies, such as mobile devices and on-line social networks. They deserve our full commitment -- full access to education, adequate healthcare, employment opportunities, financial services and full participation in public life. On International Youth Day, let us renew our pledge to support young people in their development. Sustainability is the most promising path forward, and youth can lead the way."
The sustainability theme is being incorporated into global and local efforts through an international photo competition entitled "Shoot Nations". A selection of photographs presented to the United Nations are on display at U.N. Headquarters in New York City through August 14.
Categories: Human Rights
