International Youth Day

What Is International Youth Day?

August 12 is "International Youth Day." Adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1999 and observed since 2000, this international day shines a light on the challenges young people face around the world and encourages their participation in society.

Why Is August 12 "International Youth Day"?

Following a recommendation from the 1998 World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth, the UN established this day to support young people's rights and potential. The date itself carries no special wordplay or historical event—it was chosen through international agreement.

• Established by the UN: To raise international awareness of issues such as youth social participation, education, and employment.
• An annual theme: As a matter of fact, the UN sets a different theme each year, such as "Youth and Climate Change" or "Youth Mental Health."
• Worldwide initiatives: Events, workshops, and policy discussions are held in countries around the world.

Global Challenges Facing Young People

International Youth Day is also a day to think about the problems young people face on a "global scale."

• Access to education: As a matter of fact, many young people around the world still lack access to education.
• Employment: Youth unemployment remains high in many countries and is an ongoing international issue.
• Social participation: Efforts are underway to encourage young people's involvement in politics and community activities.
• Mental health: The UN has repeatedly highlighted youth mental health as a key theme.

Young People and the Future: Science, Technology, and Society

Young people are at the center of new technologies and social change.

• Digital natives: As a matter of fact, young people use the internet and social media to bring visibility to social issues.
• Drivers of innovation: Many of the world's startup founders are young people who are creating new value.
• Climate action: Youth-led environmental movements have influenced international policy.

Interesting Facts About International Youth Day

• The UN's definition: As a matter of fact, the UN defines "youth" as people aged 15 to 24.
• Youth as a share of the world's population: Young people make up about 16% of the world's population, according to UN statistics.
• Connection to the SDGs: Many goals related to education, gender equality, and decent work directly involve young people.
• One of the UN's international days: Among the UN's international observances, this one is an important day focused on the future of young people.

Tips for Marking International Youth Day

• Learn about the social issues young people face around the world.
• Take part in a local youth support program or volunteer activity.
• Set aside time to think about your own future—education, career, mental health.
• Check the UN's official theme for the year to learn about global trends.

The Voices of Young People Have the Power to Move the Future

August 12's "International Youth Day" is a day to engage with both the potential and the challenges of young people. It's an opportunity to broaden understanding and support, so that the generation that will shape tomorrow's world can build a better society.