Will launch new strategy to increase work with youths: UN chief
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said the United Nations is strongly committed to listening to the voices of young people - and opening pathways for meaningful participation in decisions that affect them.
"This September, we will launch a new strategy to step up our work with and for young people," the UN chief said in a message on International Youth Day that falls on August 12.
He said they must invest so that young people have access to education, training and decent jobs to achieve their full potential, according to his message received from UN Dhaka office.
"In making the world safe for young people, we make the world better for all.
I wish all a happy International Youth Day!" Guterres said.
He said the hopes of the world rest on young people. "Peace, economic dynamism, social justice, tolerance - all this and more, today andtomorrow, depends on tapping into the power of youth."
Yet more than 400million young women and men live amidst armed conflict or organized violence, said the UN chief.
"Millions face deprivation, harassment, bullying and other infringements of their rights. Young women and girls are particularly vulnerable," he said.
Guterres said the world's young people need safe spaces -- public, civic, physical and digital spaces where they can freely express their views and pursue their dreams.