In an effort to harness the energy, imagination and initiative of the world’s youth in overcoming the challenges facing humankind, from enhancing peace to boosting economic development, the United Nations proclaimed an International Year of Youth from 12 August 2010 – 11 August 2011.
In its resolution proclaiming the Year, the General Assembly called on governments, civil society, individuals and communities worldwide to support activities at local and international levels to mark the event. Under the theme ‘Dialogue and Mutual Understanding,’ the Year aimed to encourage dialogue and understanding across generations and promote the ideals of peace, respect for human rights and freedoms, and solidarity.
It encouraged young people to dedicate themselves to fostering progress, including the attainment of the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which seek to slash a host of social ills, ranging from extreme poverty and hunger to maternal and infant mortality to lack of access to education and health care, all by 2015.
Please click on the links below to access the full text of the GA Resolution that proclaims the year in all six UN languages.
Documents:
GA Resolution A/RES/64/134 - Proclamation of 2010 as International Year of Youth: Dialogue and Mutual Understanding:
GA Resolution A/RES/66/129 - International Year of Youth: Dialogue and Mutual Understanding: