International Youth Day, observed annually on August 12th, is a global recognition of the power and potential of young people in shaping our world’s future. This day provides a platform to celebrate their accomplishments, discuss the challenges they face, and explore ways to empower them to become leaders, innovators, and change-makers. In this article, we look into the significance and the role of youth day in today’s society.

International Youth Day was established by the United Nations (UN) as a response to the discussions at the United Nations World Youth Forum held in Vienna, Austria, in 1991. The first official International Youth Day was celebrated on August 12, 2000. The day aimed to raise awareness about the importance of addressing the needs and issues faced by the youth worldwide. Every International Youth Day has its own theme and its own goals towards a particular aspect of youth empowerment, challenges, or contributions. These themes are selected to initiate discussions and actions that improve the lives of young people and create a better world for them.

International Youth Day reflects its significance in modern society as it provides a platform to recognize and address the unique challenges, contributions, and potential of young people. Therefore, the role of a youth day in modern society can be discussed under various attributes. 

• International Youth Day encourages young people to actively participate in Politics, economics, and social development. And encourage them to participate in the decision-making process as the future of the planet depends on the youth.
• The day raises awareness about the common struggles youth face such as unemployment, mental health struggles, inequality in education, etc. By raising awareness about the problems youth face, International Youth Day promotes discussions and necessary actions that are needed to overcome these challenges.
• The day celebrates the diverse talents, cultures, and backgrounds of young individuals worldwide. It provides a platform to appreciate the global youth cultures and the contributions they make on local, national, and international levels.
• International Youth Day reflects a global unity among young individuals. This promotes world peace and understanding, tolerance, and cooperation among diverse youth populations.
• It inspires young people to engage in positive change. As it showcases stories of young leaders, activists, entrepreneurs, and artists who have made remarkable contributions to their communities and encourages others to follow suit.
• The day reflects the importance of education and skill development in young people. It elaborates on the importance of equal and quality education and equal opportunities that ensure the full potential of a young individual. This ensures the future of the youth and the planet.
• Address the importance of empowering young people to challenge and overcome gender stereotypes and biases. And discuss initiatives that promote gender equality and encourage both young men and women to reach their goals without limitations.

Therefore, International Youth Day is not just a celebration. It encourages individuals, governments, organizations, and communities to recognize and support the potential of young people as active agents of change and integral contributors to building a better world.

This year International Youth Day is themed after ‘’Green Skills for Youth: Towards A Sustainable World”. As we are currently facing a climate crisis, a green transition is so much important. For a successful transition towards a greener world, the Development of Green skills in the youth population is important. Green skills are “knowledge, abilities, values, and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society”. The main Green skills that the UN emphasizes for International Youth Day 2023 are, 

• Environmental awareness and literacy – Youth should have a broad understanding of the environment, biodiversity, climate change, human impact on the environment, etc. as this knowledge is important to minimize the problems that occur in the transition towards a greener world.
• Knowledge about renewable energy – knowledge of renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal, is valuable for youth. This includes understanding their benefits, installation, and maintenance.
• Agriculture and food production – Knowledge about sustainable agriculture and food production is important for ensuring food security and minimizing the environmental impact of agriculture.
• Necessary skills for water management and conservation, biodiversity conservation, and waste management and recycling – This knowledge helps to protect vital resources while minimizing the impact of human activities on the environment.
• Knowledge about energy-efficient building techniques, and eco-friendly materials as they are important to follow greener practices in the construction field.
• Digital skills – Skills such as data analysis, remote sensing, and utilizing digital platforms for environmental advocacy are becoming increasingly relevant for a sustainable transition into a green world.

Development of these green skills in youth plays a crucial role in addressing environmental issues and lays the foundation for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by United Nations. International Youth Day serves as a platform to promote and prioritize the development of these skills among youth, ensuring their active involvement in shaping a more sustainable future.

For the official celebration of Youth Day 2023, DESA will organize a global webinar in collaboration with the UN Global Initiative on Decent Jobs for Youth and Generation Unlimited. The webinar will offer critical information and data and will promote discussions and an exchange of ideas on green skills for youth. (source: DESA, UN)

Source: Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), United Nations

As we delve into the concept of green skills during the 2023 World Youth Day, a clear and powerful message emerges: Young people aren’t only receivers of our planet’s legacy; they are their stewards. In a world fighting climate change, depleting resources, and environmental challenges, the youth’s role gains even greater significance. Their understanding of renewable energy, waste reduction, sustainable farming, and more, empowers them as catalysts for positive change. By mastering these skills, they hold the potential to undo environmental damage and guide us toward a greener future.

In essence, International Youth Day is not just a celebration. It encourages individuals, governments, organizations, and communities to recognize and support the potential of young people as active agents of change and integral contributors to building a better world. Also serves as a reminder of the importance of investing in their growth, development, and empowerment to build a more inclusive and sustainable world.

Written by: Nilakshi Nethmini

Graphic design by: Nisal Dilmith