Published on: 2026-08-13
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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August 12, 2026 Sustainable Development Goals
Half of the world’s population today is under 30 years old, and by the end of the decade this figure is expected to reach 57 percent. On International Youth Day, the UN reminds us that despite differences in living conditions, young people in all countries of the world strive for a decent future, participation in society, and the opportunity to realize their potential.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for treating representatives of the new generation as equal partners in building a sustainable future and expanding their participation in decision-making at all levels.
Common challenges require common solutions
“This year’s theme — ‘Different conditions, common aspirations’ — reflects a simple truth: despite all differences, young people around the world share the hope of living a dignified life, participating in societal life, and having opportunities for development,” the UN Secretary-General’s message for the occasion of International Youth Day states.
The Secretary-General noted that the younger generation in various countries around the world faces a number of interconnected challenges. Among them are economic uncertainty, inequality, and climate change.
According to the UN chief, these challenges require coordinated international action.
Youth is the driving force of change
Guterres also emphasized that young people are already proving themselves as organizers and innovators.
“In order to move forward, they need the opportunity to acquire skills that will shape the future—from critical thinking and problem-solving to digital literacy,” he noted.
The UN chief added that by working with youth as equal partners, the international community will be able to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, harness the knowledge and energy of young people to overcome current crises, and take advantage of the demographic dividend. This refers to the potential economic growth when the share of the working-age population in a country exceeds the share of children and elderly.
At the same time, the Secretary-General emphasized that youth should be given a more significant role in decision-making processes at the local, national, and international levels.
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