On the occasion of International Youth Day (August 12), being observed with the theme “Youth Engagement for Global Action” this year, UN Chief António Guterres, in his released message stated, "This year’s Youth Day occurs as the lives an
d aspirations of young people continue to be upended by the COVID-19 pandemic. Some have lost their lives, and many have seen family members and other loved ones perish. The vulnerabilities of young refugees, displaced persons, young women and girls and others caught up in conflict or disaster have grown more acute. A generation’s very formation has been jeopardized, their steps towards adulthood, identity and self-sufficiency thrown off course."
He expressed optimism and faith in world's youth, he called upon the world community to enable the world’s youth to enjoy lives of safety, dignity and opportunity and contribute to the fullest of their great potential. He added, "But this generation is also resilient, resourceful and engaged. They are the young people who have risen up to demand climate action. They are mobilizing for racial justice and gender equality and are the champions of a more sustainable world."
He urged that realizing the promise of this generation, we needed investing far more in young people’s inclusion, participation, organizations and initiatives.
The UN General Assembly President, Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, in his message urged the mainstreaming of young peoples’ voices, actions and initiatives, as well as their meaningful, universal and equitable engagement. He stressed the need for 'building up the capacity of youth to be able to make their own decisions on health and to take responsibility for health.'
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