International Youth Day 2021

Youth is an important and integral part of a society, tomorrow’s future depends on today’s youth. To increase the awareness towards the issues faced by youths, and to focus on youth empowerment, International Youth Day is observed every year on 12 August. With the theme, “Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health”, International Youth day 2021 emphasize on the importance of working towards more equitable food systems. 

History of International Youth Day 

The first International Youth Day was  celebrated in the year 1999, by the United Nations. The special day was marked on a recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth in Lisbon to the UN General Assembly. Since then, the day is observed  across the world to highlight the socio-economic and socio-political issues that youth face. The Assembly recommended that public information activities such as campigions, cultural events etc. be organized to support the Day and  to promote better awareness of the World Programme of Action for Youth, adopted by the General Assembly in 1996. 

Theme for International Youth Day 2021

Everyday there is a theme around which youth day is observed. This year’s theme has been decided in consideration of the impact of COVID-19 on human health, the environment and the food systems. The theme for  International Youth Day 2021 is “Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health ”. with the rising population of the world,  producing a larger volume of healthier food more sustainably and ensuring human and planetary wellbeing is a challenge. Youth can play a vital role in overcoming this challenge and this year’s youth day theme revolves around this issue. 

According to the United Nations website, through youth education, engagement, innovation and entrepreneurial solutions, this year’s International Youth Day’s aim is to provide a platform for youngsters  to continue the momentum from the EYF in the lead up to the high-level Food Systems Summit. This year, International Youth Day is virtually convened by DESA in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the Major Group for Children and Youth. 

“Young people are on the frontlines of the struggle to build a better future for all. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the dire need for the kind of transformational change they seek – and young people must be full partners in that effort.” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. 

Surely, without youth power it will not be possible to change the world for the better. One step towards empowering youth can result in a great milestone in empowering the world’s future.