International Youth Day (IYD) was established by the United Nations in 2000 as a means of raising awareness of issues affecting young people around the world.

IYD forms part of the UN's wider World Programme of Action for Youth (WPAY), an initiative that aims to promote the wellbeing and livelihood of young people.

Its 15 priority areas include: education, employment, poverty and hunger, the environment, drug abuse, juvenile delinquency, leisure-time activities, health, girls and young women, HIV/AIDS, information and communications technology, inter-generational issues, armed conflict, the mixed impact of globalisation, and the full and effective participation of youth in society and in decision-making.

Resources