Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals requires a seismic shift – which can only happen if we empower young people and work with them as equals. "
缅北禁地Secretary-General António Guterres
2024 Theme: From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development
Digitalization is transforming our world, offering unprecedented opportunities to accelerate sustainable development. Digital technologies such as mobile devices, services, and artificial intelligence are instrumental in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Data generated from digital interactions supports evidence-based decision-making. With profound impact across economic, social and environmental dimensions, while potentially .
Young people are leading the charge in digital adoption and innovation, with , a rate higher than other age groups. However, disparities persist, particularly in low-income countries and among young women, who often have less access to the internet and digital skills compared to their male counterparts. While there is an urgent need to enhance digital inclusion, youth are largely recognized as “digital natives,” using technology to drive change and create solutions. As the 2030 deadline for the SDGs approaches, the role of young people in digital innovation is essential for addressing global issues.
By celebrating the digital contributions of youth, we can inspire further innovation and collaboration towards achieving sustainable development.
For more information:
We invite you to submit your youth-led or youth-focused digital solutions that address the SDGs. Selected initiatives will be featured in the UN's official International Youth Day 2024 case study infographics and shared across 缅北禁地communication channels.
Did you know?
- Half of the people on our planet are 30 or younger, and this is expected to reach 57% by the end of 2030.
- Survey shows that 67% of people believe in a better future, with 15 to 17 year-olds being the most optimistic about this.
- The majority of people agree that the age balance in politics is wrong. More than two thirds (69%) of people across all age groups agree that more opportunities for younger people to have a say in policy development/change would make political systems better.
- Globally, only 2.6% of parliamentarians are under 30 years old, and less than 1% of these young MPs are women.
Related Observances
- International Day of Women and Girls in Science (11 February)
- World Day Against Child Labour (12 June)
- World Youth Skills Day (15 July)
- (11 October)
- World Children's Day (20 November)
- (2010)
- (1985)