New York - With the largest generation of young people in history - and projected to increase by 2030 - there is an urgent need to recognize young people as key partners in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and to harness their potential in bringing innovative solutions to local and global challenges.

The 2024 ECOSOC Youth Forum provides a crucial platform for young leaders from across the globe to engage with government representatives, policymakers, civil society and the private sector. 

Aligned with the theme of ECOSOC and the 2024 UN High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF), "Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises: the effective delivery of sustainable, resilient, and innovative solutions," the Youth Forum will focus on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under review this year: no poverty (SDG 1), zero hunger (SDG 2), climate action (SDG 13), peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16), and partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). Young people will make their voices heard and showcase ideas and solutions to tackling the challenges related to achieving these goals.

The Forum will also gather young people to share their recommendations and innovative ideas in regional-focused discussions and in the preparation of the Summit of the Future, to be held under the auspices of the General Assembly in September 2024.

UNDP has been supporting the Youth Forum since 2012. This year, UNDP will co-host thematic sessions and participate in high-level events, ministerial meetings, and side events with partners, building momentum for youth engagement in key issues such as peace and security, political participation in elections, gender, climate, green jobs, and education.

UNDP will also leverage Generation17 — a partnership with Samsung — to amplify the voices, stories, and ingenuity of young leaders helping to achieve the Global Goals.

List of UNDP's engagement at the ECOSOC Youth Forum: