This meeting celebrated the 20th anniversary of the World Program Adoption for Youth. It aimed to set a policy framework along with practical guidelines for both national actions and international actions dedicated toward promoting youth empowerment. The question of the contribution of the youth to Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs) was an important element of this meeting. There is a need for a permanent solution to insure that youth populations are being involved in various decision-making processes at the United Nations. According to the panelist, youth contribution to society is only feasible through strong leadership from the central government. Additionally, the panelists pointed out that the youth do not hinder economic growth, nor are a danger for preserving cultural values, but are a driving force for innovation and an essential component of society.

This event also emphasized the need for a greater understanding of the linkages present between the different policy making areas. In terms of urban environments, it was highlighted that public policies have created city inclusivity as a pre condition to improve general quality of life and to fully develop the potential of youth in society. It was also stated that the notion of attaining youth empowerment and participation starts with stemming youth employment. As a result, the delegation of Guinea asserted that the youth must have access to education of all forms, which shall assist them in facilitating reform in a wide array of sectors. The representative of Algeria spoke about the importance of establishing youth professional insertion programs to help promote social justice, parity, social peace, sustain formation and fight unemployment. In terms of media, the question of creating a partnership between the youth and media actors was also addressed. Finally, the overarching notion of encouraging political participation of youth in government remained at the cornerstone of the post-2015 development agenda and the discussion of the Action for Youth.

Meeting: High-level event for the World Programme of Action for Youth (WPAY)
Date & Location: 29 May 2015, General Assembly Hall, UN Headquarters, New York
Speakers: Representative of Algeria; Representative of Guinea; Representative of Morocco; Various Youth Stakeholders
Written By WIT Representative: Elisabeth Muratori
Edited By WIT Representative: Parth Shingala