The American Human Rights Council (AHRC-USA) joins the United Nations and the world community in recognizing International Youth Day on August 12, 2016. This is a day set aside by the United Nations General Assembly on December 17, 1999 with Resolution 54/120 establishing Youth Day (http://www.un.org/en/ga/search/view_doc.asp?symbol=A/RES/54/120) to recognize and celebrate youth around the world, and their vision and participation in making the world better. 

 This year’s theme for International Youth Day is: The Road to 2030: Eradicating Poverty and Achieving Sustainable Consumption and Production. This important theme is about the youth’s participation in achieving the 2030 the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (http://www.globalgoals.org/) , and particularly Goal Number 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Responsible consumption and production speaks specifically to the ability to minimize waste and pollution associated with the products and services we use to meet our needs around the world. Achieving Goal Number 12 is key to eradicating poverty and increasing quality of life for world citizens. 

 The youth of today are the savviest as to technology use. They are also a generation that is environmentally conscious. Despite the many strengths of today’s youth, there are also the concerns over alienation, radicalization and extremism. It is the responsibility of all of us to make sure that the youth channel their energy in a positive way and are immunized against radicalization and hate.

“The world’s youth have the energy and innovative ideas to achieve social and economic justice and to protect human rights for all people everywhere,” said Imad Hamad , AHRC-USA Executive Director.  “International Youth Day is a wonderful opportunity for communities around the world to mentor, encourage, and recognize the talents, gifts and ideas of our young people. The world’s youth have unlimited potential to make great contributions to improve the lives of us all ,” added Mr. Hamad.

The American Human Rights Council (AHRC-USA) encourages youth participation in its work to advance and promote human rights worldwide. AHRC-USA has internship and volunteer opportunities available for young people interested in learning more about human rights. Please contact  Imad@ahrcusa.org,  attention Ms. Minnie Washington for more information.

 To learn more about International Youth Day, please visit the The United Nations events page for youth day (http://www.un.org/en/events/youthday/).

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