The proclamation of this International Year by the United Nations General Assembly on August 12th, marks the aspirations of a new generation of Youth.

25 years after the first International Year of Youth in 1985 and five years ahead of the 2015 target date for achieving the Millennium Development Goals, this Year brings youth to the forefront of global debates and calls for  increased investments and strengthened commitments in recognition of the key role of youth in development.

The theme of the Year is particularly relevant to UNESCO’s work as it embraces the Organization’s approach to youth as agents of peace and vital partners in national development. It coincides with the International Year for the Rapprochement of Cultures, which UNESCO is leading and which has recognised an increased role for youth in promoting dialogue and mutual understanding. 

UNESCO is also developing specific initiatives within the strategic objectives of the Youth Programme :

• A Global Report on Youth Civic Engagement with region-specific data and research and a particular focus on young women and vulnerable youth groups; 
• A campaign for the ratification and implementation of the African Youth Charter, is being proposed (subject to funding) to be carried out with the African Union Commission and key partners in Africa, within the  implementation of the Strategy on African Youth 2009-2013; 
• Building on the 5-year project on “Youth Development and violence prevention in Central America”, UNESCO is planning to develop a publication and an online handbook on the preventive approach to violence among youth;

Source : UNESCO

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