International Youth Day

International Youth Day History

International Youth Day is an annual observance that aims to raise awareness on the cultural, social, and legal issues facing young people worldwide. Established by the United Nations, the day focuses on promoting the vital role of youth in society and highlighting their potential to act as agents of positive change. Celebrated through various events and initiatives, International Youth Day encourages stakeholders to work together in addressing issues faced by today’s youth, including education, employment, mental health, discrimination, and access to resources.

International Youth Day was first endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1999, following recommendations made at the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth held in Lisbon, Portugal. With around 13 million inhabitants under the age of 24 in the United Kingdom, youth issues are highly significant for this demographic. International Youth Day provides an opportunity for the UK government, charities, and communities to continue efforts in promoting youth engagement and prioritising their well-being. Events and campaigns are held across the country dedicated to elevating the voices and experiences of British youth.

To mark International Youth Day in the United Kingdom, various activities and initiatives are organised by youth organisations, academic institutions, and local authorities. These may include workshops, conferences, panel discussions, and online campaigns designed to engage and empower young people. Community leaders and policymakers are encouraged to listen and respond to the needs of youth in the UK. International Youth Day is observed every year on August 12th, serving as a timely reminder of the significance of young people’s voices and ideas in shaping the UK’s future.

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.
• Young people aged 10-19 represent 11% of the total population of the UK.
• The youth unemployment rate in the United Kingdom was 11.3 percent in March 2023, compared to 10.8 percent in February 2023.

In the News and Trending in the UK for International Youth Day

Top things to do in the UK 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.
• Use International Youth Day as an opportunity to volunteer for a local charity or organization working with young people, helping them develop new skills, build confidence, and create positive relationships.
• Attend networking events aimed at young people to forge new connections and discuss matters of mutual interest, such as career development, education, or social issues.