Today’s generation
of youth — the largest the world has ever known, and the vast majority
of whom live in developing countries — has unprecedented potential to
advance the well-being of the entire human family. Yet too many young
people, including those who are highly educated, suffer from low-wage,
dead-end work and record levels of unemployment. The global economic
crisis has hit youth the hardest, and many are understandably
discouraged by rising inequalities. A large number have no immediate
prospects and are disenfranchised from the political, social and
development processes in their countries. Without urgent measures, we
risk creating a “lost generation” of squandered talent and dreams.
Working
with and for young people is one of my top priorities. Youth are a
transformative force; they are creative, resourceful and enthusiastic
agents of change, be it in public squares or cyberspace. From their
pivotal role in efforts to achieve freedom, democracy and equality, to
their global mobilization in support of the Rio+20 UN Conference on
Sustainable Development, youth have energetically demonstrated yet again
their capacity and desire to turn the tide of history and tackle global
challenges.
Young
men and women are not passive beneficiaries, but equal and effective
partners. Their aspirations extend far beyond jobs; youth also want a
seat at the table — a real voice in shaping the policies that shape
their lives. We need to listen to and engage with young people. We need
to establish more and stronger mechanisms for youth participation. The
time has come to integrate youth voices more meaningfully into
decision-making processes at all levels.
Around
the world, there is growing recognition of the need to strengthen
policies and investments involving young people. On International Youth
Day, I call on Governments, the private sector, civil society and
academia to open doors for young people and strengthen partnerships with
youth-led organizations. Youth can determine whether this era moves
toward greater peril or more positive change. Let us support the young
people of our world so they grow into adults who raise yet more
generations of productive and powerful leaders.
Ban Ki-moon
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