Last week, the YSP delegation participated in the UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), engaging in key discussions on youth inclusion and sustainable progress. We attended several side-events focused on the role of young people in achieving the SDGs—and left feeling more inspired than ever! The UN is intensifying efforts to empower youth and collaborate with partners to create meaningful change in local communities. As part of this push, we joined three impactful side-events centered on youth empowerment. Here’s what we learned:
Tzu Chi Foundation
Panelists highlighted the lack of accessible platforms where youth can build confidence and voice their concerns. They emphasized the need for greater capacity-building to enable young people to contribute effectively. Additionally, cultural and skill-building exchange programs were recognized as key tools for fostering youth leadership.
German Mission to the UN
A standout example of cross-sector collaboration, this event showcased a successful partnership between a nonprofit, a private company, and a government entity to provide paid career training in developing communities. This initiative helps youth gain financial independence and build confidence. The discussion also underscored the importance of listening to youth—understanding their needs and interests revealed a strong preference for in-person activities and hands-on skill development.
UN Youth Office
In a dynamic panel featuring young activists and high-level UN officials, discussions centered on strengthening the Youth2030 agenda. Key takeaways included:
- The need to revamp youth governance structures
- Prioritizing youth representation in high-level political discussions
- Transforming internal UN systems to model meaningful youth engagement
A powerful message resonated throughout: If you can criticize, you can change the agenda. Youth are not just passive observers—they are active agents of positive change.
We extend our gratitude to the hosts of these insightful side-events, the UN Youth Office, and Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, Felipe Paullier, for their leadership in advancing youth engagement and advocacy within the UN.
