Youth are the catalyst and frontiers for positive social change. Hence, in acknowledgment of the vital role of youth participation in political, social and economic processes, the United Nations General Assembly (UN) declared the 12th of August as International Youth Day,
following recommendations made by the 1st World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth (Lisbon 1998), demonstrating the global commitment to ensure the reflection of the youths unique perspective in national policies and frameworks.
This UN day dedicated to youth across the globe aims to recognize the needs of the youth and encourage their engagement in events and discussions on various prominent socioeconomic and political issues in their communities.
This year’s theme is “Youth Engagement for Global Action” which aims to highlight the vital importance of youth engagement at local, national and global levels to national institutions ,
processes and initiatives. That includes the youths involvement in the formulation of laws, policies and their implementation.
Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the youth immensely, subsequently creating various challenges such as difficult access to the job market due to the economic impact of the pandemic.
Moreover, it is estimated, according to the world bank, that around 600 million jobs we have to be creative in the next 15 years to meet the employment needs of the global youth. Thus, it is imperative to recognize the needs and challenges of the youth, in addition to encouraging their involvement to ensure an inclusive and effective response.
The Geneva Institute for Human Rights acknowledges the need for youth participation in development programs and the role of the youths active involvement in society in contributing to the prevention of violence.
With that being said, the Institute appeals to all countries, particularly countries of the Middle East and North Africa, to encourage the youths freedom of expression and enhance their creativity and innovation. In addition, the Institute urges for the implementation of the provisions of Security Council Resolution 2250 on “Youth, Peace and Security, the United Nations global counter-terrorism strategy and the development of national action plans to ensure their implementation.
Finally, the Geneva Institute for Human Rights is pleased to announce the establishment of the first youth unit at the Institute that shall focus on the following key themes:
Youth, peace and security (UNSCR 2250)
Youth and human rights
Youth and sports
Youth and sustainable development
Youth, armed conflict and democracy