International Youth Day is celebrated annually on 12 August. This observance, celebrated by thousands of young people, activists, and youth organizations worldwide, brings public attention to important issues related to youth, in particular the need for better addressing youth concerns in international development efforts.

In our country, International Youth Day has triggered hundreds of youth-driven actions and initiatives by youth networks and volunteers. Activists of youth networks “Healthy Youth” and “Diligent Youth” supported by UNFPA and Women’s Committee have come up with a number of activities to make young people’s voices heard.

The celebrations included annual awarding ceremony for most active and talented youth, and a charity concert by local groups. In particular, most active representatives of “Diligent Youth” network from the country’s 11 regions were awarded, as well as girls who demonstrated good results in sports competitions held with support of Women’s Committee.

Other partners working in the area of youth involvement also took part in the day’s events. In particular, UNDP’s “Social Innovations and Volunteerism in Uzbekistan” project has presented its initiatives aimed at encouraging young people’s participation in socio-economic development of the country.

UNFPA and Women’s Committee have been working together throughout the years, on promoting healthy lifestyle among the young people in Uzbekistan. Both partners share similar visions on strengthening the rights of young people and enhancing their potential to increase their role in society.