Published: 12 August 2025
Concept Note
The youth have always played a central role in the struggle for freedom and people's rights in liberation movements of Bangladesh. The most recent example of this is the youth-led anti-discrimination movement that led to the fall of authoritarian regime. This movement has not only set a unique example at the national level but has also made a significant mark globally. Therefore, to maintain the strength and ideals of youth, there is no room for ignoring their voice at both national and local levels. However, the tone of despair and feelings of neglect in the voices of Bangladesh’s youth are gradually intensifying. Due to political insincerity, narrow viewpoints, and structural inequality, their participation in the policymaking process of society is being hindered. Thus, ensuring the engagement of the youth in creating a discrimination-free, democratic, accountable, and well-governed Bangladesh should be the commitment for International Youth Day 2025.
International Youth Day
In response to the demands of young participants at the United Nations World Youth Forum held in Vienna, Austria, in 1991, the proposal to observe International Youth Day on August 12 was made at the "World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth" in Lisbon, Portugal, in 1998. In 1999, the UN General Assembly expressed support for the proposal. Following this, since 2000, the United Nations has celebrated August 12 as "International Youth Day." This year, the theme for International Youth Day is "Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond," with the core message being "Prioritizing the participation and innovative initiatives of local youth in SDG implementation."
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