International Youth Day

International Youth Day History

International Youth Day is a global observance that aims to promote the rights of young people and raise awareness on various issues facing them today. The day seeks to put youth-related issues, such as education, employment opportunities, and mental health, at the forefront of the global agenda. It encourages governments, institutions, and civil society to work together to foster the inclusion and participation of young people in the decision-making processes that shape their respective societies.

The UN established International Youth Day on December 17, 1999, following a recommendation from the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth held in Lisbon in 1998. For young New Zealanders, the focus on International Youth Day often revolves around themes such as mental health, social connection, cultural diversity, and environmental issues. Celebrating this day in New Zealand serves as a reminder of the importance of empowering the nation's young people to become active citizens and contribute to positive change.

In New Zealand, International Youth Day is observed through various events and initiatives, organized by local communities, schools, and non-profit organizations. These may include seminars, workshops, sporting events, cultural performances, and volunteer opportunities, all aimed at engaging and empowering youths. International Youth Day is celebrated annually on August 12, providing a platform for young Kiwis to make their voices heard and be part of the global movement towards their rights and wellbeing.

International Youth Day facts

• The Theme of International Youth Day in 2023 was Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World
• International Youth Day has been celebrated in over 100 countries, making it one of the most widely observed UN days.
• The UN defines youth as people between the ages of 15 and 24 years, but events for International Youth Day often include people of all ages.
• There are currently around 1.6 million New Zealanders under the age of 25, representing about 33% of the population.
• In the September 2021 quarter, the unemployment rate (not seasonally adjusted) for people aged 15–24 in New Zealand was 9.6 percent.

In the News and Trending in NZ for International Youth Day

Top things to do in NZ for International Youth Day

• Participate in a Youth Day celebration within your city. Use the hashtag #YouthDay to promote and find events.
• Encourage confidence building activities for the youth in your life. This can be done by having youth participate in sports, drama clubs, debate clubs and music bands.
• Explore natural scenic spots, outdoor adventures, or cultural attractions that appeal to young people's interests and curiosity, such as hiking trails, beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, museums, galleries, or historic landmarks.
• Volunteer or participate in community service projects that benefit youth or disadvantaged groups, such as cleaning up beaches, planting trees, mentoring younger students, or fundraising for charities that support youth development.