When is International Youth Day 2024? Date, Theme, History, Significance and Celebration

Every year, on August 12, International Youth Day is celebrated. It is a special occasion dedicated to recognising the potential, achievements and contributions of young people across the globe. This day is not just about highlighting the challenges that youth face but also about celebrating their role as essential partners in building a better future.

From driving digital innovation to championing social causes, today’s youth are at the forefront of change, making their mark on every aspect of society. This International Youth Day, let’s dig deeper into the theme, history, significance and various ways to celebrate this day.

International Youth Day 2024 Theme

The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.’

The digital age is reshaping our world, providing unique opportunities to accelerate sustainable development. Digital technologies such as mobile devices, services, and artificial intelligence play a crucial role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Young people are at the forefront of digital adoption and innovation. However, disparities exist, especially in low-income countries and among young women, who often have less access to the internet and digital skills than their male counterparts.

While digital inclusion needs to be improved, youth are generally seen as digital natives, using technology to drive change and create solutions. With the 2030 deadline for the SDGs approaching, the role of young people in digital innovation is crucial for addressing global issues.

International Youth Day History

In 1965, the General Assembly endorsed the Declaration on the Promotion among Youth of the Ideals of Peace, Mutual Respect, and Understanding between Peoples in resolution 2037. From 1965 to 1975, the General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council emphasised three main themes in the field of youth: participation, development, and peace. The need for an international policy on youth was also highlighted.

In 1979, the General Assembly designated 1985 as International Youth Year: Participation, Development, Peace through resolution 34/151. In 1985, the Assembly endorsed guidelines for further planning and suitable follow-up in the field of youth with resolution 40/14.

In December 2009, the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution 64/134, proclaiming the year commencing 12 August 2010 as the International Year of Youth. This called upon governments, civil society, individuals, and communities worldwide to support activities at local and international levels to mark the event. The Year coincided with the 25th anniversary of the first International Youth Year in 1985.

International Youth Day Significance

International Youth Day is celebrated annually on 12 August to highlight youth issues and celebrate the potential of youth as partners in today’s global society. Here are five points underscoring its significance:

1. AwarenessIt brings youth issues to the attention of the international community.
2. RecognitionIt celebrates the potential of youth as essential contributors to society.
3. EngagementIt encourages young people to take active roles in their communities.
4. DialogueIt promotes intergenerational understanding and collaboration.
5. ActionIt inspires initiatives and activities that address youth-related challenges.

International Youth Day 2024: How to Celebrate

According to the UN, here are several ways to celebrate International Youth Day:

1. Educational radio showContact popular local or national radio stations to discuss youth contributions with distinguished individuals and young people.
2. Public meeting or debateOrganise virtual or in-person meetings to discuss young people’s contributions to global issues.
3. Round table discussionsPromote intergenerational understanding through discussions among adults and young people.
4. Youth forumExchange ideas and discuss cultural backgrounds to help young people accept others and popularize a culture of non-violence.
5. Virtual concertPromote International Youth Day and the launch of the Year by inviting local musicians and combining the event with a panel discussion or a keynote speech by a politician or policy maker.
6. Info pointSet up information points about youth-related issues in central locations, such as town centers, high schools, or universities.
7. ExhibitionOrganise art exhibits showcasing the challenges young people face today or how they are contributing to development. Involve young people in culture, arts, and music to raise awareness of youth-related issues.