International Youth Day-2025: 12 August

Why in news ?

• International Youth Day is celebrated every year on 12 August. Its purpose is to focus on youth-related issues, challenges and opportunities around the world and to promote the active participation of youth in social, economic, political and environmental development.

History of establishment

• Declaration: In December 1999, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) decided to celebrate this day by passing resolution number 54/120.
• Background: Its proposal came in the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth held in Lisbon (Portugal) in 1998.
• First celebrated: 12 August 2000

2025 Theme

Theme of International Youth Day 2025- "Youth advancing multilateral cooperation through technology and partnerships"

Significance

• Providing a global platform – Youth get an opportunity to raise their voice at the international level.
• Contribution in policy making – Governments and institutions are inspired to make youth-friendly policies.
• Empowerment – Strengthening the role of youth in leadership, innovation and skill development.
• Peace and development – Increasing youth contribution to international cooperation and social cohesion.
• Environmental protection – Active participation of youth in global crises like climate change.

Context in India

• Youth population: India has about 37 crore people in the age group of 15-29 years, which is about 27% of the total population (2021 estimates).
• Policies and programmes:
  • National Youth Policy – framework for the holistic development of youth.
  • Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) – contribution to community development by organizing youth in rural areas.
  • National Service Scheme (NSS) – contribution of student youth in social service work.
  • Skill India Mission – skill training to increase employment opportunities.
  • Fit India Movement – promotion of health and fitness of youth.

 United Nations Activities

• Youth Agenda 2030: This is the global framework of the United Nations, which aims to empower the capabilities of youth by 2030.
• UN Youth Envoy: This post is specially created to advance youth related issues.