International Youth Day was established in 1999 by the United Nations and has been commemorating it annually on August 12. The theme for International Youth Day 2024 is “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.” The theme highlights the key connection between digitalization and accelerating the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing the crucial contributions of young people in this transformative process, stated the United Nations in its official un.org website.

For the observance of International Youth Day 2024, UN DESA collaborates with key partners, including International Telecommunication Union (ITU), UN-Habitat, and UN Internet Governance Forum (IGF). Together, these partnerships will highlight the transformative potential of youth-driven digital solutions in advancing sustainable development.

UN DESA, together with the partners, coordinates a series of products to officially commemorate the Day which includes:

• Case Study Infographics: The official commemoration product for International Youth Day 2024, showcasing a collection of youth digital solutions and innovative initiatives aimed at accelerating SDG implementation.
• Interactive Online Quizzes: Learning tools designed to enhance knowledge and understanding of how digital technologies contribute to advancing the SDGs.
• Social Media Toolkit: Social media resources that amplify the message of International Youth Day and its 2024 theme with key messages, data, and insights. It will provide visual assets for download, encouraging individuals to celebrate the day within their communities and roles.

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Digital technologies such as mobile devices, services, and artificial intelligence are instrumental in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as digitalization is offering unprecedented opportunities to accelerate sustainable development. The UN has stated that, “Young people are leading the charge in digital adoption and innovation, with three-quarters of those aged 15 to 24 using the internet in 2022, a rate higher than the other age groups.”

However, in low-income countries and among young women, they often have less access to the internet and digital skills compared to their male counterparts. While there is an urgent need to enhance digital inclusion, youth are largely recognized as “digital natives,” using technology to drive change and create solutions. As the 2030 deadline for the SDGs approaches, the role of young people in digital innovation is essential for addressing global issues.

By celebrating the digital contributions of youth, we can inspire further innovation and collaboration towards achieving sustainable development.