On the International Day of Youth
As prepared for delivery by Evan Moglin, Political Section
to the Permanent Council, Vienna
August 12, 2021
The Co-Chairs (Spain, Kyrgyz Republic, and United States) of the OSCE’s Group of Friends of Youth and Security would also like to recognize the International Day of Youth and give thanks to the young people who have supported their communities in the OSCE region and beyond—especially during the pandemic. With the world’s population expected to increase by two billion people in the next 30 years, we support the United Nations’ efforts to include youth in addressing future sustainability challenges.
We believe governments must ensure public services not only meet the health and security needs of youth, but that also young people play an active role in shaping community interventions. This year’s theme, “Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health,” highlights the need for youth to make informed decisions on the healthiest and most sustainable food security choices as the global population continues to grow. This can be achieved by increasing international education surrounding human health, the environment, and sustainable food systems, as well as by providing a platform for young people to have an active voice in solving these issues.
As the world continues its fight against the pandemic, youth should be empowered to take responsibility for their own health and the health of their communities. We recognize that young people play a key role in managing this outbreak and celebrate the innovative ways youth organizations have spread trustworthy public health information through videos and social media. We also applaud the efforts of young people around the world who have rallied to deliver support to at-risk populations.
The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Group of Friends of Youth and Security look forward to continuing to engage on this issue.
Thank you, Madam Secretary.
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