International Youth Day is celebrated on August 12th to bring issues related to youth to the attention of the international community and to celebrate their potential as partners in shaping today’s global society. The day provides an opportunity to acknowledge young peoples’ voices, actions, and initiatives. Established by the UN General Assembly in 1999,
the theme for 2021, “Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health”, highlights that the success of such a global effort will not be achieved without the meaningful participation of young people.
As we celebrate our youth, we also remember the many challenges they face growing up in this age. We acknowledge there is a need globally for better nutrition, health care and education to support their well-being and development, as well as the need to provide safe and secure environments for those vulnerable to all forms of bondage and violence.