In a world reeling from conflict, climate disasters and economic instability, young people are being denied their rights, their choices, their hope for the future.
At the same time, many young people are stepping up as powerful leaders, driving innovation to address challenges, including the climate crisis and gender inequality, at all levels – global, regional and local.
Most young men and women reject violence and instability. Many are proactively involved in building peace, as global crises threaten the bodily autonomy and agency of young people, including their ability to exercise their reproductive rights and choices.
As we mark International Youth Day this year, the efforts of young people to build peace and support the Sustainable Development Goals are in focus. The views and voices of young people are critical to building a more equitable, sustainable and peaceful world.
A future of peace and prosperity depends on the meaningful inclusion of young people across the planet. Political exclusion – which underpins all other forms of exclusion – must be dismantled. All youth should have the tools and opportunities to create the futures they want, including high-quality education and healthcare, along with affordable housing, parental leave and childcare to help them realize their desired family size.
UNFPA champions the rights of young people and works to enable them to fulfill their potential. You can show your support with the hashtag #YouthLeadPeace.
