By Oğuz Ergen, Siraz Erureten

Every year on 12 August, International Youth Day celebrates the ideas, energy and contributions of young people around the world. But it is also a reminder of something important: young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow. They are already helping solve problems in their communities today.

Across the globe, young people are already leading today.

In Türkiye, young people are turning environmental ideas into practical solutions. Young innovators are using drones to help restore forests damaged by fires in Marmaris, while in Bozcaada, young environmental leaders are helping restore marine ecosystems by planting coral. Other youth-led initiatives are bringing together young people, civil society, experts and local authorities to tackle marine pollution and find local solutions to the climate crisis.

In Ukraine, young people are also helping their communities navigate extraordinarily difficult circumstances. From encouraging civic participation among young leaders in Poltava to contributing to local recovery and resilience during the war, they are showing how youth leadership can strengthen communities even in times of crisis.

These examples reflect an approach that UNDP supports around the world: giving young people the space, tools and opportunities to turn their ideas into action.

One example is Generation17, a global initiative launched by UNDP and Samsung to support young leaders advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. From climate action and digital innovation to civic participation and social inclusion, the initiative helps amplify their ideas and share solutions that can inspire others.

But meaningful youth engagement goes beyond showcasing success stories. Young people need to be involved when decisions are made, not simply invited to participate afterwards.

That means listening to their priorities, giving them a real voice in decisions that affect them, and helping them access the skills, networks and resources they need to put their ideas into practice.

For UNDP, supporting young people is therefore not only about investing in the future. It is about working with a generation that is already contributing to stronger communities, more inclusive societies and a healthier planet.

This International Youth Day, the message is simple: young people are ready to lead, and many already are.

Our role is to make sure more of them have the opportunity to do so.