The world’s young people need safe spaces – both physical and digital - where they can "freely express their views" and "pursue their dreams" was the core message of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to mark this year’s International Youth Day.
NEW YORK, (Pakistan Point News - 11th Aug, 2018) The world’s young people need safe spaces – both physical and digital - where they can "freely express their views" and "pursue their dreams" was the core message of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to mark this year’s International Youth Day.
"The hopes of the world rest on young people," said the UN chief of the official Day, which is celebrated annually on 12th August.
"Peace, economic dynamism, social justice, tolerance – all this and more, today and tomorrow, depends on tapping into the power of youth," he added.
There are currently 1.8 billion young people between the ages of 10 and 24 in the world – the largest youth population ever.
''Political instability, labour market challenges and limited space for political and civic participation have led youth to becoming increasingly more isolated, raising the need for more safe spaces where they can meet, engage and express themselves.'' The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, specifically Goal 11, emphasizes the need for the provision of space towards inclusive and sustainable urbanization.
"We must invest so that young people have access to education, training and decent jobs to achieve their full potential," underscored the Secretary-General.
"The United Nations is strongly committed to listening to the voices of young people – and opening pathways for meaningful participation in decisions that affect them," he continued, announcing a new strategy to be launched in September "to step up our work with and for young people."
"In making the world safe for young people, we make the world better for all," concluded Mr. Guterres, "I wish all a happy International Youth Day!"
