Youth
Today, the world counts 1.8 billion young people between the ages of 10 and 24: the largest generation in history. Close to 90 per cent of these, live in developing countries, where they make up a large proportion of the population. Connected to each other and the world like never before, young people want to and already contribute to the resilience of their communities, bringing innovative solutions, driving social progress and inspiring political change. They are agents of change, mobilising to improve the lives of people and the health of the planet.
This generation has inherited unprecedented challenges that hinder them in creating a bright future for themselves. From the ever-stronger effects of climate change, to the ongoing global pandemic of COVID-19 and the consequences of the measures to counteract it, young people are suffering the repercussions of issues caused by previous generations.
Yet, we must remember, that young people are not only beneficiaries of aid. When they are provided with the necessary skills and opportunities to participate in decision-making and realise their full potential, young people can be a driving force for sustainable development, peace and security. They are able to make a positive impact at massive scale.
With the adoption of the Doha Programme of Action for the Least Developed Countries, and as the Fifth United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDC5) is set to identify actions and partnerships to deliver this ambitious plan, the present and future of young people in LDCs are at stake. Young people have a right to shape it, and a responsibility to contribute to its making.
Not including young people in the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the Doha Programme of action as the crucial partners they are, would not only impact them, but also their communities, countries and ultimately our common vision for a better, more sustainable future. For this reason, the United Nations is working to ensure young people are at the heart of the plans to realise new Programme of action by addressing their developing needs and empowering them in furthering progress.
LDC5 will provide a platform for dialogue among LDCs, development partners and the global community on youth development in LDCs. The conference will create space to discuss and create targeted policies to empower the young population in LDCs and enhance their role in implementing the new Programme of Action as well as the 2030 Agenda.
Youth Track @ Doha
- Provide a safe space for young people to discuss the issues they face, share opportunities and identify solutions.
- Establish a group of motivated young changemakers, empowered as key stakeholders of LDC5 and in realizing the Doha Programme of Action.
- Adopt the Youth Declaration to LDC5, #ForAllGenerations
Youth on the move!
Adoption of the Youth Declaration
The and the , facilitated by the United Nations, coordinated the creation of a Youth Declaration titled “For All Generations”.
Youth Delegates of LDC5
We are bringing young people from each of the world’s 46 Least Developed Countries to a historical event - the 5th United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries - that will shape the next decade of action!
LDC5 Intergenerational Dialogue
The dialogue will be a place for an alternated, head-to-head, discussion among Member States, representatives of the United Nations, Private Sector and Civil Society, together with young people.
How are young people contributing to LDC5?
- Statement to the 2nd Preparatory Committee of LDC5 by Youth Representative: Fahmida Faiza from International Coordination Meeting of Youth Organisations (ICMYO)
- General Assembly: Joint thematic event of the General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council on Least Developed Countries
- Africa Regional Review Meeting (22-26 February 2021, Lilongwe, Malawi)
- LDC5 ECOSOC Youth Forum Side-Event (6 April 2021, Virtual)
- Blog