International Youth Day 2023: History, significance & more

New Delhi: International Youth Day is celebrated annually on August 12th, emphasizing the importance of engaging and empowering the youth. It aims to highlight their potential to create positive change and address global challenges.

History

In 1999, the United Nations designated a significant day on the calendar to commemorate the youth worldwide. This decision came about after the General Assembly endorsed the recommendation put forward by the ‘World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth.’ Since then, International Youth Day has been observed every year as a way to acknowledge and amplify the crucial role that young people play as catalysts for positive transformation in our global society. Through International Youth Day, we celebrate the energy, creativity, and resilience of youth, while also addressing the challenges they face.

Significance

International Youth Day presents a opportunity to spread awareness about the obstacles and issues that young people encounter in their lives. It also emphasizes the importance of their active involvement in social, economic, and political processes. This special day brings together governments, organizations, communities, and individuals to discuss and tackle the needs, concerns, and dreams of young individuals.
The ultimate goal is to highlight the significance of investing in the well-being, education, and participation of young people. By doing so, we can collectively shape a brighter future for our communities and the world.

Theme

Happy #YouthDay! 🎉

Young change-makers are taking #ClimateAction, helping achieve a more sustainable future for all.

It’s crucial to equip them with the necessary skills & tools to shift our world toward a greener tomorrow. https://t.co/rt7H5u6mTv pic.twitter.com/ENPyvJ53sr

— United Nations (@UN) August 12, 2023

International Youth Day has a different themes every year that focuses on various aspects of empowering the youth and their development. In 2023, the theme will be “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World.” This means that the world is trying to become more environmentally friendly and prevent climate change, which is important for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. To succeed in this transition, people need to learn new skills that will help them be more eco-friendly.

Ways to Celebrate International Youth Day:

1. Organize a youth-focused event: Plan a gathering or event that highlights the achievements, talents, and aspirations of young people in your community. You can include activities like performances, speeches, workshops, or panel discussions to showcase their skills and accomplishments.

2. Raise awareness on social media: Use the power of social media to spread awareness about International Youth Day and its significance. Share inspiring stories of young individuals making a difference, create engaging posts with relevant hashtags, or initiate conversations around youth-related issues.

3. Youth-focused workshops or webinars: Organize workshops or webinars that provide valuable knowledge and skills to young people. Topics can include goal-setting, career development, mental health, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

4. Collaborative projects: Initiate collaborative projects that bring young people together with representatives from various industries, community leaders, and policymakers. Encourage dialogue, idea-sharing, and problem-solving.

5. Showcase youth achievements: Create a platform to recognize and celebrate the achievements of young individuals in various fields such as arts, sports, academics, innovation, or social activism. Highlight their accomplishments through exhibitions, awards ceremonies, or online showcases.