Recognizing that youth are not a homogenous group, the Guidance Note provides a structured framework to address the overlapping barriers faced by young women, persons with disabilities, Indigenous youth, LGBTI youth, and others experiencing multiple forms of exclusion. It combines real-world case studies, a practical self-assessment checklist, and clear benchmarks across key strategic areas including leadership, participation, financing, data, safeguarding, and institutional culture to help governments, UN entities, civil society, and development partners move beyond one-size-fits-all approaches toward more equitable, accountable, and youth-responsive systems.

By embedding intersectionality across the programme cycle, the Guidance Note supports partners in operationalizing 'Leave No One Behind' commitments and strengthening the meaningful participation and leadership of diverse young people in sustainable development.