GoldenYouth

Share

Young African Social Entrepreneurs (SUSI) Photo by Grace Ihejiamaizu

In 2009 the United Nations declared that August 2010 – August 2011 would be the International Year of Youth.  Now that 2011 has begun, and there are only nine months remaining in the International Year of Youth (IYY), it’s a good time to refocus our attention on the unique needs, desires, talent and aspirations of youth around the world. 

First, let’s remember what youth, who represent 18% of the world’s population, are facing in today’s global environment.  United Nations fact sheets tell us:

–  In 2009, about 81 million young people were unemployed, the most ever;

–  In 2008, young people accounted for 40% of all new global HIV infections in people aged 15  years and older;

–  Children and youth are uniquely vulnerable to involuntary military recruitment;

–  More that 1.8 million young people aged 15 to 24 die each year, mostly due to preventable causes.

But not all the news about today’s youth is discouraging.   Young people everywhere are improving their societies and focusing their energies on the issues that matter most to them.  For example, youths are leading the way on climate change, organizing campaigns to help victims of natural disasters, preparing to be the next generation of government leaders, and innovating new ways to educate their fellow young global citizens.  In August President Obama’s Forum with Young African Leaders brought dozens of young men and women to Washington, DC to discuss the future of the African continent.

Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon has said, “Youth should be given a chance to take an active part in the decision-making of local, national and global levels.”   The IYY encourages “Everyone… to promote the ideals of peace, freedom, progress and solidarity towards the promotion of youth development.”

What will you do in 2011 to support youth in your community?