Half of the world’s population is under the age of 30, and today’s 1.9 billion young people—the largest generation in history—are driving change and actively shaping the future. Digitally connected and passionate about innovation, youth are leading social, political, and economic progress in their communities and globally.
Yet, significant challenges persist. Young people, especially young women and girls, face disproportionate barriers. These include legal, institutional, financial, and social barriers that systematically limit youth participation, access to resources, and opportunities to lead. Age-based exclusion often intersects with gender, geography, and socioeconomic status, undermining development and social cohesion. Outdated norms and structural barriers continue to sideline youth, denying them their rights and their vital role in shaping policies and decisions that affect current and future generations.
UNDP, aligned with the UN Youth 2030 Strategy, recognizes youth as key agents of change – driven by a co-creation approach, and working hand-in-hand with young people, governments, civil society, and youth-led networks to build inclusive, resilient societies. Our efforts focus on:

• Meaningful Participation: Young people have the right to influence decisions impacting their lives. UNDP promotes meaningful youth participation at all levels—local, national, and global—strengthening democratic processes and fostering intergenerational dialogue through both offline and digital platforms.
• Youth, Peace and Security: UNDP supports youth leadership and participation in peacebuilding and crisis response, ensuring their voices shape strategies for conflict prevention, recovery, peacebuilding and inclusive policies.
• Opportunities and Leadership: From employment and entrepreneurship to climate action and civic engagement, UNDP equips youth with the resources, mentorship, and networks they need to develop their skills, lead initiatives, and actively contribute to sustainable development goals.
• Innovation for a Sustainable Future: UNDP partners with young people to co-create innovative solutions for a more sustainable, equitable, and peaceful world. Through capacity building, financial support, and global networks, young people are supported to drive systemic change and lead transformative initiatives

UNDP’s commitment to youth empowerment is multifaceted. UNDP advocates and promotes inclusive policies, invests in youth leadership development, and cultivates global networks for collaboration.

Invest in Youth. Invest in Our Future. Partner with UNDP to unlock the transformative power of this generation and build inclusive and resilient societies together. 

Follow @UNDP4Youth on X and  Instagram and visit UNDP Global Youth space.

Use the hashtags: #Youth2030 | #Youth4Peace | #Youth4Climate | | #Generation17