International Youth Day is a holiday created by the United Nations and celebrated on August 12th annually since 2000. On this day, people are encouraged to recognize the importance and hard work of the world’s youth and their contributions to society. It is also a day to promote ways to engage young people worldwide and help them contribute even more to their communities and society in general.

History of International Youth Day

Before International Youth Day, there was an International Youth Year, created in 1985. Ten years later, guidelines and rules were established to help people around the world work together to improve the lives of young people.

The 15 areas designated as priorities for youth are Education, Employment, Poverty, Health, the Environment, Delinquency, Drug Abuse, HIV and AIDS, Girls and young women, Participation, Globalization, Intergenerational relations, Youth conflict, Communication technologies, and Leisure time activities.

In 1999, International Youth Day was created as a tool to accomplish and further these aims. This day, established by United Nations Resolution 54/120, is a day for people to remember these aims and do what they can for the world’s youth. It is also a call to government agencies, charities, and other organizations worldwide to improve the lives of young people.

International Youth Day Customs & Traditions

Every year, the United Nations selects a theme for International Youth Day. These themes allow participants to focus their events on a specific area of need among the world’s youth. For example, in 2016, the theme of International Youth Day was “The Road to 2030: Eradicating Poverty and Achieving Sustainable Consumption and Production.”

Activities and events take place worldwide on International Youth Day. These events typically include parades, concerts, fairs, festivals, exhibitions, and sporting events. Some people choose to celebrate according to the theme provided by the United Nations or celebrate it in another way. Since it is an observance day and not a public holiday, in most countries, government buildings, banks, and businesses do not normally close on International Youth Day.