2010 International Year of Youth

In western society, obsession with youth is widespread. Fear of growing old and losing our looks influence us to vainly invest obscene amounts of money to slow down the aging process. If you ask me, young people have far greater assets than a youthful appearance. Youth have the imagination, curiosity, passion, and willingness to learn that many of us lose as we grow older. Youth have hope, faith, and vision of a future of peace for mankind. These are the qualities of youth that we should hold on to, these are the qualities of youth that we should celebrate.

The United Nations (UN) knows the power and potential of youth. In December 2009, the UN proclaimed 2010 the International Year of Youth. Starting August 12, 2010, the International Year of Youth is dedicated to harnessing the energy and leadership qualities of the world’s youth (14-24 years of age) towards overcoming many of the challenges that face mankind.

“The International Year is about advancing the full and effective participation of youth in all aspects of society,” UN Focal Point on Youth Nicola Shepherd said. “We encourage all sectors of society to work in partnership with youth and youth organizations to better understand their needs and concerns and to recognize the contributions that they can make to society.”

The theme for the 2010 International Year of Youth is “Dialogue and Mutual Understanding”. Upon proclaiming the resolution for the Year, the UN’s General Assembly called upon governments, civil society, individuals and communities around the world to support local and international activities that encourage dialogue and understanding between the generations and promote peace and respect for human rights, freedoms, and solidarity.

The resolution for the Year also calls upon young people to dedicate themselves to nurture progress, including the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDG’s), which aim to eliminate many of the world’s most critical issues such as extreme poverty, hunger, maternal and infant mortality, education, and health care by 2015.

Throughout the word, many events have already been planned to commemorate the International Year of Youth. These include the Fifth World Youth Congress from July 31st to August 13th in Istanbul, and the World Conference for Youth in Mexico City from August 24th-27th. Both events will focus on youth leadership and sustainable development within the context of the MDG’s.

The UN has created a system of approach with include three main objectives for the International Year of Youth. The first is to create awareness and increase commitment and investment in youth. The second is to mobilize and engage youth by increasing youth participation and partnerships with governments, organizations, and private institutions. The third is to connect and build bridges by increasing cross-cultural understanding among youth.

The 2010 Year will mark the 25th anniversary of the first International Year of Youth in 1985 on the theme “Participation, Development and Peace”

Website: www.social.un.org/youthyear