August 12th is International Youth Day! This globally recognized day focuses on the importance of improving life for children around the world.
Every day, countless youth struggle with the challenges of poverty, war, and hunger. To help combat this, the United Nations declared 1985 the “International Year of Youth”. Ten years later, in 1995, they established the World Programme of Action for Youth. This initiative helped to establish guidelines to help create a better life for young people around the world. Most recently, in 1999, the UN declared August 12th International Youth Day to serve as a continual reminder that children truly are our future.
The theme for International Youth Day 2024 is “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.” This year’s theme highlights the transformative power of digitalization in driving sustainable development. With technologies like mobile devices and artificial intelligence, young people are at the forefront of adopting and innovating digital solutions that contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Digital interactions generate valuable data that support evidence-based decision-making, impacting approximately 70 percent of the 169 SDG targets and potentially reducing the cost of achieving these goals by up to USD 55 trillion.
Despite their leadership in digital adoption, disparities remain, particularly for youth in low-income countries and young women, who often face barriers to accessing the internet and digital skills. Nevertheless, young people are recognized as “digital natives,” leveraging technology to effect change and develop solutions to global challenges. Celebrating their digital contributions not only inspires further innovation but also encourages collaboration in the pursuit of sustainable development as the 2030 deadline for the SDGs approaches.
You can also take action locally by supporting groups like the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee and the United Way. They are always looking for volunteers and donations to help combat childhood hunger and poverty. The United Way supports local food pantries, school supply drives, and education programs. It’s a great way to get involved in improving the lives of youth right here in Milwaukee, Mequon and Waukesha!
