International Youth Day
- Aug 12, 2025
- 1 min read
August 12 is International Youth Day. International Youth Day brings attention to youth issues, while also celebrating the contributions and potential of young people on the global stage.
International Youth Day was established by the United Nations in 1999 as a way to promote the World Programme of Action for Youth. 2025 marks 30 years of the World Programme of Action for Youth, which calls for youth to be recognized as “key actors in sustainable development and participatory governance” (United Nations).
This year’s International Youth Day theme is Local Youth Actions for the Sustainable Development Goals and Beyond. This theme draws attention to the importance of including youth in carrying out the Sustainable Development Goals in their local communities, and the importance of youth engagement in local governance and development. Supporting and consulting youth in local governance and decision-making supports the development of innovative and engaged future leaders.
For more information on meaningfully engaging with youth, please see UNESCO Youth Engagement
For more information on International Youth Day and the Sustainable Development Goals, please see United Nations International Youth Day
