International youth day 2024
Jane Goodall once said “I do have reasons for hope: our clever brains, the resilience of nature, the indomitable human spirit, and above all, the commitment of young people when they're empowered to take action” which emphasizes the importance of young people when making the world a better place. To celebrate the abilities and talents of these people around the globe, the United Nations celebrates International Youth Day every year with unique themes.
International Youth Day is commemorated on the 12th of August each year, to bring about the matters and ideas of the young people to the attention of the international community and make a difference in the world’s future. The idea for an International Youth Day was first proposed in 1991 by the young people gathered in Vienna, Austria and consequently first celebrated in 1998 hosted by the government of Portugal, celebrated from that year onwards providing immense support to young people worldwide.
This year’s theme is declared “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development” which depicts the strong connection between the youth and technology that is inevitable in the rapidly changing tech-driven world. This year, the United Nations is emphasizing the use of mobile devices, social media, and AI technology to elevate sustainable development in the world through the major users of the technology, who are young people around the world, who contribute towards the development of innovations and new pathways using technological advances.
In the present world, Half of the people on our planet are 30 or younger, this is expected to reach 57% by the end of 2030. With the increasing number of young people around the planet, there can be more opportunities for them to unite and conquer the world for a better place with the tech tools available in hand. This year's theme also suggests addressing the barriers in education and other sectors through digital tools and making a more inclusive society with more opportunities for women and rural people who often suffer from societal barriers.
Digital technology has fueled innovation and entrepreneurship, providing young people with the tools to turn their ideas into reality. From developing apps to launching online businesses, digital platforms offer a fertile ground for young entrepreneurs to thrive. The democratization of technology means that anyone with a computer and internet connection can create and innovate.
Youth-led startups are driving social and economic change, addressing pressing issues such as climate change, healthcare, and education. By supporting young entrepreneurs through mentorship, funding, and access to technology, we can unlock their potential to create solutions that contribute to sustainable development.
With many opportunities for young people, there remain some challenges when achieving those great targets. Some of them are Cybersecurity and data privacy, the digital divide, unemployment, and mental health issues which are eminent in the present society. These issues have increased with the digital age and social media era, and it is believed that these issues can be prevented and minimized using the same technology and tools that have created the issue.
Social media platforms have become powerful tools for youth activism, enabling young people to amplify their voices and advocate for causes they care about. From climate strikes to social justice movements, youth are using digital platforms to mobilize support, challenge the status quo, and drive policy changes.
Digital advocacy allows young people to connect with like-minded individuals, share information, and collaborate on initiatives that address global challenges. By supporting youth-led advocacy efforts, we can harness their passion and creativity to create meaningful change.
International Youth Day 2024 is a celebration of the power and potential of young people to drive sustainable development and positive change. By empowering young people through quality education, inclusive policies, and active participation, we can harness their energy and creativity to build a better future for all.
As we commemorate this day, let us commit to supporting and investing in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Together, we can create a world where young people have the opportunities and resources they need to thrive and make a difference.
