UN and Young People
The UN General Assembly observed 1985 as the International Youth Year and drew international attention to the important role young people play in the world, and, in particular, their potential contribution to the development and the goals of the United Nations Charter. On the tenth anniversary of the International Youth Year, the United Nations strengthened its commitment to young people by directing the international community's response to the challenges of youth into the next millennium. It did this by adopting an international strategy — the World Programme of Action for Youth to the Year 2000 and Beyond. In addition, Chapter 25 (Children and Youth in Sustainable Development) of Agenda 21 also clearly notes the importance of the involvement of today's youth in environment and development decision-making and in the implementation of programmes and activities, including achieving the millennium development goals.
The UN Programme on Youth (based in New York) is the focal point on youth within the United Nations. It aims to build an awareness of the global situation of young people, as well as promote their rights and aspirations. The Programme also works towards greater participation of young people in decision-making as a means of achieving peace and development.
Considerable efforts have been made by UN agencies and other organizations to develop resources and support activities related to children and young people. Since the adoption of the “one UN” approach, agencies have been working closer together to coordinate efforts. The Youth and United Nations Global Alliance (YUNGA) not only facilitates UN collaboration, it engages civil society and acts as a gateway to allow children and young people to learn about the UN system, participate in its activities and contribute to achieving.
The UN Programme on Youth (based in New York) is the focal point on youth within the United Nations. It aims to build an awareness of the global situation of young people, as well as promote their rights and aspirations. The Programme also works towards greater participation of young people in decision-making as a means of achieving peace and development.
Considerable efforts have been made by UN agencies and other organizations to develop resources and support activities related to children and young people. Since the adoption of the “one UN” approach, agencies have been working closer together to coordinate efforts. The Youth and United Nations Global Alliance (YUNGA) not only facilitates UN collaboration, it engages civil society and acts as a gateway to allow children and young people to learn about the UN system, participate in its activities and contribute to achieving.