Secretary-General’smessage

The theme of this year’s International Youth Day – “Youth Engagement for Global Action” — spotlights the ways in which the voices and activism of young people are making a difference and moving our world closer to the values and vision of the United Nations Charter.

This year’s Youth Day occurs as the lives and aspirations of young people continue to be upended by the COVID-19 pandemic. Some have lost their lives, and many have seen family members and other loved ones perish.

The vulnerabilities of young refugees, displaced persons, young women and girls and others caught up in conflict or disaster have grown more acute.

A generation’s very formation has been jeopardized, their steps towards adulthood, identity and self-sufficiency thrown off course.

Some have taken on care burdens or are suffering from increased risks of hunger, violence in the home or the prospect…