Do everything easy for youth globally: UN chief
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on leaders and adults everywhere to accomplish everything possible to allow the youth to enjoy lives of safety, dignity and opportunity and contribute to the fullest of their great potential.
"They (youth) are peacebuilders promoting social cohesion at the same time of social distancing, advancing a finish to violence globally and advocating harmony at the same time of rising hatred," he said in message marking the International Youth Day that falls on August 12.
The theme of the year’s International Youth Day - “Youth Engagement for Global Action” -- spotlights the ways that the voices and activism of young persons are making a notable difference and moving the world nearer to the values and vision of the United Nations Charter.
This year’s Youth Day occurs as the lives and aspirations of young people continue to be upended by the COVID-19 pandemic, the UN chief said.
He said some have lost their lives, and many have seen members of the family and other loved types perish.
"The vulnerabilities of young refugees, displaced persons, young women and girls and others caught up in conflict or disaster have grown more acute," Guterres said.
He said a generation’s very formation has been jeopardised, their steps towards adulthood, identity and self-sufficiency thrown off course.
Some took on care burdens or suffer from increased risks of hunger, violence in the house or the chance of never having the capacity to resume their education, Guterres said.
But, he said, this generation can be resilient, resourceful and engaged.
They will be the young people who've risen up to demand climate action, Guterres added.
"They are mobilizing for racial justice and gender equality and so are the champions of a far more sustainable world," said the UN Secretary General.
He said most are young women who've been on the frontlines in mobilizing for justice and climate action - while also serving on the frontlines of the COVID-19 response.
Realising the promise of the generation means investing a lot more in young people’s inclusion, participation, organizations and initiatives, Guterres said.
