Introduction

International Youth Day (IYD) is an observance recognized annually on August 12th. Established by the United Nations in 1999, it serves as a platform to recognize the contributions and challenges that youth bring to the modern world. With over 1.8 billion young people between the ages of 10 and 24 in the world, it's crucial to understand and acknowledge the unique perspectives and energy they contribute. This day emphasizes the critical role youth plays in shaping our future and recognizes their potential in driving change.

The Theme and Focus of International Youth Day

Each year, International Youth Day carries a specific theme aimed at highlighting various aspects of youth development and empowerment. Themes have included Education, Civic Engagement, Mental Health, Peace, and Climate Action, reflecting diverse concerns and aspirations of young people across the globe.

The focus of International Youth Day is not just to celebrate young individuals but to encourage them to take active roles in societal transformation. It emphasizes the idea that the youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow but are leading today, engaging in innovative ways to solve current challenges.

Youth in Education and Employment

One significant focus is the education and employment of young individuals. Education serves as a cornerstone in the development and empowerment of youth, providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to participate actively in society. Unfortunately, millions of young people still lack access to quality education and training, particularly in developing countries.

Employment is another crucial area. The global youth unemployment rate has remained stubbornly high, leading to social and economic challenges. Initiatives that promote skill development, innovation, and entrepreneurship can play a vital role in creating opportunities for young people to engage in the workforce.

Youth and Mental Health

Mental health is another critical focus, with many young people grappling with mental health challenges in modern society. Stress, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues are rising among youth. Recognizing and addressing mental health has become paramount, with a growing need for resources, education, and support to ensure young people's well-being.

Youth as Agents of Change: Activism and Volunteering

Youth activism and volunteering have surged in recent years, with young people leading the way on various social, political, and environmental issues. From climate change to social justice, youth have become vocal advocates, pushing for change and challenging the status quo. International Youth Day recognizes these efforts and encourages continued involvement in social reform.

Challenges Facing Youth

Despite their potential, young people face many challenges. Discrimination, inequality, lack of access to education and health services, and limited opportunities for participation in decision-making processes are common hurdles. Addressing these challenges requires global cooperation and targeted initiatives that focus on the needs and rights of young people.

Youth and Technology

In the age of technology, young people have unprecedented access to information and platforms to express their views. Social media and other online platforms have become tools for youth to engage in dialogue, share ideas, and connect across borders. While this connectivity brings immense opportunities, it also presents challenges, including cyberbullying and misinformation. Navigating this digital landscape requires education and support to harness technology positively.

Conclusion: Building a Future with Youth

International Youth Day serves as a vital reminder of the incredible potential that resides within the young population. It's a call to governments, organizations, and individuals to invest in youth, providing education, employment opportunities, mental health support, and platforms for activism and engagement.

As we celebrate International Youth Day, let us recognize that the youth are not merely future leaders but are actively shaping the present. Their energy, innovation, and passion are essential for building a just, inclusive, and sustainable future. Engaging with and supporting youth is not a choice but a necessity in our continually evolving world. By recognizing and nurturing their potential, we not only celebrate the youth but invest in a future where they thrive, lead, and inspire.

Youth and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations offer a framework that directly resonates with the aspirations and needs of the youth. Young people are essential in achieving these 17 interconnected goals, which strive for a more sustainable and equitable world. From eradicating poverty to promoting quality education and addressing climate change, youth engagement is pivotal in realizing these ambitious targets.

Governments, organizations, and communities must involve young people in planning and decision-making processes that relate to the SDGs. Encouraging youth participation ensures a more inclusive and dynamic approach, reflecting the needs and priorities of younger generations.

Youth, Peace, and Security

In regions afflicted by conflict and violence, young people often bear the brunt of the turmoil. However, they also play vital roles in peace-building and reconciliation efforts. Their energy, creativity, and willingness to forge connections across divides make them valuable contributors to conflict resolution and peace maintenance.

International Youth Day serves as a platform to highlight these efforts and recognize young people's roles in promoting peace and security. By supporting initiatives that empower youth in conflict-affected areas, we can foster resilience, rebuild communities, and pave the way for lasting peace.

The Importance of Inclusive Policies

Creating an environment where youth can thrive requires thoughtful and inclusive policies that reflect their diverse needs and perspectives. Policymakers must engage with young people, including those from marginalized and vulnerable groups, to craft policies that address challenges like inequality, discrimination, and limited access to essential services.

Investing in youth-friendly health services, inclusive education, and supportive labor policies can make significant strides in creating opportunities for all young people, regardless of their background.

Youth and Cultural Diversity

Youth are often at the forefront of celebrating and promoting cultural diversity. They engage with various cultural expressions, contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage, and promote intercultural dialogue. In an increasingly globalized world, young people's ability to transcend cultural boundaries is crucial in fostering understanding, tolerance, and unity among different cultures and communities.

Global Collaboration and Partnerships

Addressing the complex challenges and opportunities related to youth development requires global collaboration and partnerships. From local community organizations to international bodies, cooperation across different levels ensures a cohesive and effective approach.

Partnerships between governments, private sector, civil society, and youth-led organizations create synergies that drive change. These collaborations enable sharing resources, knowledge, and expertise, ensuring that youth-related initiatives are more robust and impactful.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

International Youth Day is not only a celebration of youth but a call to action. It's a reminder that we must actively invest in and engage with young people, recognizing their unique potential, contributions, and the challenges they face.

We must create supportive environments, inclusive policies, and opportunities that empower youth to fulfill their potential. It's not about seeing youth as a separate entity, but as an integral part of our societal fabric. Their creativity, determination, and vision are essential in shaping a world that reflects shared values of justice, equality, and sustainability.

Let this International Youth Day be a moment of reflection, inspiration, and commitment to nurturing the talents and dreams of young people worldwide. Their voices matter; their actions are shaping our present and future. Embracing their potential is embracing a brighter, more inclusive, and innovative future for all.

Davron Muzrobov
Leading specialist of the National Center for Human Rights of the Republic of Uzbekistan

*photo from un.org