Who are Youth?
The United Nations defines youth as persons between the ages of 15 and 24. UNESCO understands that young people are a heterogeneous group in constant evolution and that the experience of "being young" varies enormously across regions and within countries.

Why do we want to engage Youth?

Youth are a major force in bringing about change;

Young people around the world continue to inspire others with their vibrancy, motivation, foresight and unique interpretation of the world we live in;

Young people play an important role in creating a sustainable future;

Because they are the leaders of tomorrow--to help them to take into their own hands the future they will be leading;

To raise awareness about issues that will impact all of our lives and environment;

Youth often want to learn more about issues and take action but often do not know where to begin;

They can provide innovative and creative ways of tackling issues.

How is UNESCO involving Youth?

UNESCO organizes various projects targeting the Youth. Check out The United Nations Youth Agenda for a broader understanding of youth development and the United Nations. 

Get Involved - What can you do?

You can discuss topics related to sustainable development, both formally and informally, at school or with family and friends.

You can be actively involved in youth organizations.

You can join regional or national networks.

You can raise awareness through your own projects and activities and promote them to the media.

You can encourage sustainable development concerns to be incorporated in government programmes and policies for youth. 

Think you don't have time to become involved?

All you need to do is consider the impact of the actions in your daily life to make a difference. 

For example: 

1)    “How can we bridge the ESD values and practical knowledge we have learned in school to our family members at home and in our community?”

2)    “One of the criticisms I hear about ESD revert back to the question of ‘proof’ in its impact and outcome. Is it possible to see the result immediately?” 

3)    "Natural disasters leave many countries’ development planning to focus on creating health clinics, shelter, food security, but not schools. Citizens are themselves mechanically prioritizing their daily lives such as, feeding themselves and their family, finding employment, making money, etc. There is such an imbalance between the economic, environment, and social sectors. I wonder how these countries can start functioning sustainably when the children are not in school. Are there other means to teach sustainable value and behavior now and in the future?

4)     “My mother makes this delicious sardine dish. Most sardines are packed in a can container. Occasionally, I would encounter it packed in a plastic container. While shopping, I always find myself debating which package to buy, even though both are equally unsustainable. How should I make my decision based on the principles of ESD?

5)     “Every product I see around me seems to be converting its image by attaching the word “eco” or “organic”. Purchasing these products makes me feel environmentally and socially quilt free, but my biggest issue is its cost. How can I educate myself to live more sustainably?

6)     “ The box of juice or milk that is in my lunch box every day is made out of cardboard paper. It is easy to carry and also recyclable. Does this mean I am friendly to the planet now and in the future?

7)     “ As a parent living in Cambodia, where the temperature is usually in the high 90 degree Celsius, it is quite a challenge to stray away from using the air conditioner. The fan most of the time is ineffective. My two children learned about the value to greening the earth, but how do I balance between needs and environmental friendly living?”