UN Secretary-General calls for greater investment and inclusion for young people

DÍLI, 13 August 2026 (TATOLI) — UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for greater investment in young people and their inclusion in decision-making, saying their shared aspirations outweigh the differences between them.

In his message marking International Youth Day, Guterres said the occasion was an opportunity to recognise the creativity, dynamism and leadership of young people around the world.

This year’s theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” reflects the shared hopes of young people despite their different circumstances, particularly their aspirations for dignity, participation and opportunity.

Guterres said young people also face challenges that cross national borders, including economic uncertainty, digital inclusion and climate change, requiring coordinated international action.

He said young people were already playing a leading role as organisers and innovators, but needed access to skills that would help them shape the future, including critical thinking, problem-solving and digital literacy.

“By working with young people as equal partners, we can unlock the demographic dividend, accelerate sustainable development, and bring their energy and expertise to bear on some of the defining crises of our time.”

He also called for young people to be given a greater role in decision-making at local, national and international levels.

Guterres said the similarities among young people worldwide were greater than their differences and reaffirmed the United Nations’ support for their calls for investment and inclusion.

“The United Nations stands with youth everywhere in their call for investment and inclusion. Together, let us build a present and future where every generation can thrive,” he said.

TATOLI