Latest news with #UnitedNationsSystem
Economic Times
7 days ago
- General
- Economic Times
International Youth Day 2025: Theme for this year, history, significance and more
Synopsis International Youth Day, celebrated annually on August 12, highlights the importance of empowering young people. The 2025 theme focuses on local youth actions for Sustainable Development Goals. Events will be held in Nairobi, Kenya, supported by UN-Habitat. The day emphasizes the role of local governments in creating spaces for youth voices. It promotes sharing ideas and building a sustainable future. Agencies Youth represent more than just the future of a nation — they are the sparks that illuminate even the most distant corners of society. Around the world, governments and organisations have increasingly recognised the critical role young people play, investing in policies and programs to nurture their talents and build a stable, thriving generation. International Youth Day, observed every year on August 12, shines a global spotlight on young people's challenges, achievements, and their vital role in shaping society. It's a day to celebrate youth as partners in progress while urging countries to focus on their needs and aspirations. The seeds for International Youth Day were sown back in 1991 during the first World Youth Forum of the United Nations System in Vienna, where young participants called for a dedicated day to raise awareness and funds for youth causes worldwide. In 1998, this vision became official when the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth declared August 12 as International Youth Day, a move later endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly. The first official celebration took place in 2000, and since then, it has become a yearly reminder of the importance of empowering young people everywhere. The theme for International Youth Day 2025 is 'Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond.' With more than 65% of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) tied to local governance, this year highlights how youth involvement at the community level is key to turning global ambitions into tangible change. This milestone year also marks the 30th anniversary of the World Programme of Action for Youth, making the 2025 celebrations especially significant. Events will be hosted in Nairobi, Kenya, with the support of UN-Habitat, bringing together youth leaders, policymakers, and local officials to explore how young people can be empowered to shape their communities and accelerate progress on the SDGs. International Youth Day 2025 focuses on the pivotal role of local and regional governments in creating spaces where youth voices matter. By crafting inclusive policies, allocating resources, and establishing youth participation mechanisms, these authorities can cultivate the next generation of changemakers and community leaders. The day serves as a platform for sharing ideas and best practices, demonstrating how empowering youth locally not only addresses their immediate challenges but also builds a stronger, more sustainable future for all. As the world gathers to mark International Youth Day 2025, the message is clear: the energy, innovation, and dedication of young people at the grassroots level hold the key to achieving a better tomorrow. Investing in youth today means securing a brighter, more inclusive future for generations to come.
News18
12-08-2025
- General
- News18
International Youth Day Wishes 2025: History, Significance And Youth's Role In SDGs
Last Updated: International Youth Day 2025, observed on August 12, showcases youth's local actions for SDGs, inspiring sustainable development worldwide. International Youth Day is observed on August 12. The day celebrates the youth and encourages them to contribute towards the betterment of society. On this day, several workshops and seminars are organised to spread awareness about the sustainable choices one should make to make the world a better place. The day also addresses the issues faced by youth. International Youth Day History The United Nations decided to observe International Youth Day on August 12 in 1999. The idea was proposed by the young people who were gathered in Vienna, Austria, for the first session of the World Youth Forum of the United Nations System. Significance of International Youth Day International Youth Day is dedicated to recognising the energy, creativity, and potential of young people worldwide. This day not only celebrates their contributions but also highlights the challenges they face, such as limited access to quality education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. It serves as a reminder to promote youth participation in social, economic, and political spheres, empowering them as vital agents of change. The day calls on governments, civil society, and the private sector to invest in youth development by creating supportive policies and programs. International Youth Day also fosters global celebrations and events aimed at encouraging young people's active involvement in addressing pressing issues like climate change, social justice, and sustainable development, while acknowledging their important role in building a better future for all. International Youth Day 2025 Theme This year's United Nations theme, 'Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond," highlights how young people, particularly young workers, are taking the lead in creating change rather than waiting for it. They are actively shaping their communities and the future. Under this theme, the UN acknowledge that youth are already making a significant impact at the local level, advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and pushing progress further. Their efforts show that young individuals are powerful agents driving transformation today. Happy International Youth Day Wishes And Messages International Youth Day is an ideal time to motivate young people and support them to achieve their potential. The following are some warm wishes to be used on this occasion: 'Happy International Youth Day! May your aspirations bring constructive change and a green future." 'Today on Youth Day, have faith in your ability to make the world a better place, full of hope, peace, and equality." 'To all the youth shaping tomorrow — keep pushing boundaries and driving progress. Happy Youth Day!" These messages celebrate the spirit and strength of youth, motivating them to embrace their roles as leaders and innovators. Quotes to Inspire the Youth Words have the power to uplift and guide. These quotes reflect the spirit of youth and their role in shaping the world: The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow." — Nelson Mandela 'Young people, who are still unburdened by the past, are best positioned to invent the future." — Barack Obama How Can Youth Contribute to Sustainable Development? Youth have great potential to drive positive change in sustainable development. Below are some of the important ways young people can contribute: Raising Awareness: Young people can educate their communities on environmental issues and sustainable alternatives. Through social media and community activities, they can promote conservation and climate messages. Promoting Change: Young people can push the government and corporations towards more environmental policies. By participating in campaigns and public forums, they can seek promises of renewable energy, waste reduction, and equitable use of resources. Designing Solutions: Young people introduce new thinking to address environmental issues. Numerous young businesspeople create sustainable commodities, green technology, and green services that help minimise pollution and conserve energy. Volunteering and Community Work: Tree planting and beach cleanups are some of the ways young volunteers contribute actively to their surrounding environments. Such practical activities make communities more robust and encourage other people to look after the planet. Adopting Sustainable Lifestyles: Young people can set an example, embracing practices such as minimizing waste, saving water, using sustainable transport, and being fair-trade supporters. Small actions multiplied by millions have a significant effect. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
12-08-2025
- General
- Time of India
International Youth Day: Know history, significance and more
Image credits: Getty Images The youth of a nation is the carrier of its future, the rays that reach far and brighten the remotest corners of its boundaries. Countries across the globe have been focusing their policies and funds on bringing up a talented and stable youth, and this is because of the attention that this section of the population has garnered in recent years. International Youth Day, celebrated annually on August 12, is a day that brings into the spotlight the issues related to youth that need international attention and celebrates the potential of the young achievers as partners of the global society. Here's all you need to know about the day! International Youth Day: History Image credits: Getty Images The idea for International Youth Day was proposed in 1991 by young participants of the first session of the World Youth Forum of the United Nations System held in Vienna, Austria. The forum recommended the creation of an International Youth Day for fundraising and promotional purposes to support the United Nations Youth Fund in partnership with youth organisations. In 1998, a resolution announcing August 12th as International Youth Day was adopted by the first session of the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth, hosted by the Government of Portugal in cooperation with the United Nations. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villas For Sale in Dubai Might Surprise You Villas in Dubai | Search Ads Get Info Undo Now, the day serves as a reminder to re-centre focus on your youth, keeping in mind the policies and funds that shape them and their future. International Youth Day: Significance Image credits: Getty Images International Youth Day is an annual day that serves as a global platform to highlight all youth-related issues and to celebrate their role in society. Each year, a unique theme is decided for the day, such as "Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable Future" in 2023, and "From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development" in 2024. The day allows countries to focus on this budding population and bring to the spotlight any problems they are facing or help they need in relation to their youth, alongside appreciating the work they put into taking the society further each step of the day. International Youth Day: What's the theme for 2025? Image credits: Getty Images The theme for this year's International Youth Day is Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond. With over 65% of Sustainable Development Goals targets being linked to local governance, the theme highlights the importance of youth engagement in achieving these targets with participation in local planning and decision-making. International Youth Day 2025 is also special as it coincides with the upcoming 30th anniversary of the World Programme of Action for Youth.
