Harnessing Tomorrow's Potential: International Youth Day in the EU's Year of Skills
Will 2023 be the European Year of Skills?
Yes, 2023 marks the European Year of Skills, a significant initiative aimed at highlighting the importance of equipping the youth with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the future job market. In an era where digital transformation is reshaping industries, having the right skills for employability is paramount.
What is the purpose of International Youth Day?
International Youth Day serves as a reminder of the potential and promise that young people bring to the table. It's a day to celebrate their achievements, recognize their challenges, and emphasize the importance of creating environments that support their growth and development.
What is the theme for International Youth Day 2023?
While the specific theme for International Youth Day 2023 is yet to be confirmed, the overarching idea remains consistent: to acknowledge the role of young individuals as essential actors of change in society.
What is the idea for International Youth Day?
The core idea behind International Youth Day is to shed light on the issues faced by young people, promote their rights, and encourage active youth participation in societal and political processes.
On the eve of International Youth Day, the European Commission made a significant announcement. They introduced the 25 young individuals chosen to be part of the 2023–2025 European Union Youth Sounding Board for International Partnerships. This board, in its second edition, will play a pivotal role in advising the Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, and the Directorate-General for International Partnerships on youth participation and empowerment in EU external action.
The selection process for the Youth Sounding Board was rigorous, with over 4,500 applications from 150 countries. The diverse board comprises 14 women and 11 men, aged 19–29, representing various regions, including Africa, Asia, the Pacific, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the European Union. This diversity underscores the EU's commitment to a global perspective on youth empowerment.
Under Commissioner Urpilainen's guidance, the EU has taken proactive steps to engage with young people, emphasizing their role in fostering sustainable development worldwide. The Youth Action Plan in EU external action, adopted in October 2022, embodies this vision. It views young people as crucial partners in building democratic, equal, inclusive, and peaceful societies. Notably, the EU Youth Sounding Board 2021–2023 played a role in co-creating this Youth Action Plan, and the current board will be instrumental in its implementation.
What does the EU do for youth?
The EU has consistently shown its dedication to the youth through various initiatives. From celebrating Europe Day to emphasising the importance of unity and peace to launching programs that focus on skills development, the EU recognizes the value of investing in the next generation.
What is the European Year of Youth initiative?
While the European Year of Skills is the focus for 2023, the European Year of Youth initiative is a broader program that emphasizes the importance of youth participation in societal processes, their empowerment, and the creation of opportunities for them in various sectors.
In conclusion, as we commemorate International Youth Day, it's evident that the EU's commitment to the youth is unwavering. By prioritizing skills development, fostering global partnerships, and ensuring active youth participation, the EU is indeed harnessing tomorrow's potential today.