In his speech at the Youth Forum inauguration, Secretary-General António Guterres acknowledged the immense potential of the youth in tackling the pressing global challenges that lie ahead. He emphasized that the energy and enthusiasm of young people are vital in driving positive change and finding innovative solutions to the complex issues facing the world today.Guterres recognized that the challenges we face are interconnected, spanning across various sectors such as climate change, poverty, inequality, and conflict. He stressed the importance of addressing these challenges collectively, with the active participation of young people who bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table.The Secretary-General also expressed his commitment to ensuring that the voices of young people are heard and taken into account in the decision-making processes. He recognized that young people have a stake in the future and should be given the opportunity to shape it. Guterres pledged to integrate youth perspectives into the political sphere, creating a platform for young leaders to contribute their ideas and influence policy decisions.Furthermore, Guterres highlighted the need for a renewed sense of belief and optimism among young people. He acknowledged that the current global landscape is filled with uncertainties and injustices, but urged the youth to maintain their faith in the possibility of a better world. He encouraged them to harness their passion and determination to overcome obstacles and work towards creating a more sustainable and inclusive future.The Secretary-General’s address resonated deeply with the audience, inspiring a sense of empowerment and motivation among the young participants. His words served as a call to action, urging young people to seize the opportunities available to them and actively engage in shaping the world they want to live in.As the Youth Forum commenced, participants were filled with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. They recognized the immense responsibility placed upon their shoulders and were eager to collaborate, share ideas, and work towards tangible solutions. The forum provided a platform for young leaders from diverse backgrounds to come together, exchange experiences, and collectively brainstorm innovative approaches to address the global challenges we face.Throughout the forum, various workshops, panel discussions, and interactive sessions were conducted, allowing participants to delve deeper into specific issues and explore potential avenues for change. The energy and enthusiasm in the room were palpable, as young people from different countries and cultures came together, united by a common goal of creating a better world.The Secretary-General’s call for youth empowerment and involvement in decision-making processes reverberated throughout the forum, with participants actively engaging in discussions and voicing their opinions. The forum served as a testament to the power of youth activism and demonstrated the potential for young people to drive meaningful change when given the opportunity.In conclusion, the Secretary-General’s address at the Youth Forum inauguration set the tone for a dynamic and impactful event. His emphasis on the importance of youth participation, belief, and collaboration resonated deeply with the participants, inspiring them to take action and work towards a more sustainable and just future. The forum provided a platform for young leaders to come together, exchange ideas, and collectively contribute to addressing the global challenges of our time.
The establishment of a new youth office at the United Nations marks a significant step towards addressing the pressing issues that impact the youth on a global scale. This office will serve as a platform for discussions and collaborations between member states and young global leaders, providing them with an opportunity to voice their concerns and propose solutions to the challenges they face.
One of the key areas of focus for this new youth office will be the derailment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite the global commitment to achieving these goals by 2030, progress has been slow, and in some cases, even regressive. The youth office will work towards reinvigorating efforts to meet the SDGs, ensuring that young people are at the forefront of these efforts.
Another critical issue that the youth office will address is the intensifying climate emergency. The world is facing unprecedented environmental challenges, and young people have been at the forefront of demanding action to mitigate the impacts of climate change. The youth office will work towards strengthening international cooperation and mobilizing resources to tackle the climate crisis, recognizing the vital role that young people play in shaping a sustainable future.
In addition to these challenges, the youth office will also focus on the deepening divides within and among nations that are undermining trust and unity. In an increasingly interconnected world, it is essential to bridge these divides and foster a sense of global solidarity. The youth office will facilitate discussions and initiatives that promote dialogue, understanding, and collaboration among young people from different backgrounds and cultures.
Furthermore, the youth office will play a crucial role in bolstering advocacy, coordination, engagement, and accountability in youth matters. It will provide a platform for young people to advocate for their rights, engage with decision-makers, and hold them accountable for their commitments. By empowering young people and amplifying their voices, the youth office aims to create a more inclusive and equitable world.
Overall, the establishment of this new youth office at the United Nations signifies a commitment to prioritize the concerns and aspirations of young people. It recognizes their role as key stakeholders in shaping the world’s future and acknowledges the need to involve them in decision-making processes. Through global discussions and collaborative efforts, the youth office will work towards building a better world for all, where the voices and perspectives of young people are valued and respected.
Enhancing Youth Engagement
Guterres pledged to ensure significant youth involvement in the upcoming Summit of the Future in September. This includes their active participation in online discussions regarding the Pact for the Future, which will feature a dedicated section for youth and future generations. The Secretary-General also urged the youth to embrace the newly launched digital campaigns for the Summit of the Future and to participate in the ActNow initiative.
Recognizing the leadership role of young people in ambitious climate action, Guterres commended the youth for instilling hope in the fight against climate change. He acknowledged that previous generations, including his own, have not been diligent stewards of the planet. However, he assured the youth that the United Nations stands as their ally in creating a sustainable future.
The Secretary-General’s commitment to integrating young voices into global decision-making processes reflects the United Nations’ recognition of the importance of youth empowerment. By harnessing the zeal and belief of the youth, the world can overcome the complex challenges it faces and build a brighter future for all.
In order to enhance youth engagement, the United Nations has implemented various initiatives and programs aimed at empowering young people and ensuring their active participation in decision-making processes. One such initiative is the Youth2030 strategy, which was launched in 2018. This strategy focuses on five key areas: education, employment, entrepreneurship, health and well-being, and participation and leadership. Through these areas, the United Nations aims to address the specific needs and challenges faced by young people and provide them with the necessary tools and opportunities to contribute to sustainable development.
Additionally, the United Nations has established various platforms and forums where young people can voice their opinions and ideas. One such platform is the United Nations Youth Assembly, which brings together young leaders from around the world to discuss and propose solutions to global issues. The Youth Assembly provides a space for young people to network, share experiences, and collaborate on projects that promote positive change.
Furthermore, the United Nations has recognized the power of technology and social media in mobilizing and engaging young people. The organization has launched several digital campaigns, such as the ActNow initiative mentioned earlier, which encourage young people to take action on climate change and other pressing issues. These campaigns utilize social media platforms and online tools to raise awareness, educate, and inspire young people to make a difference.
By actively involving young people in the Summit of the Future and other global initiatives, the United Nations is not only recognizing their potential as agents of change but also ensuring that their voices are heard and their ideas are taken into account. This inclusive approach not only strengthens the legitimacy of global decisions but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among young people, empowering them to actively contribute to shaping a sustainable future.
