Youth Forum

The Forum provides youth with a space to engage in discussion & debate, and to share recommendations & solutions with Member States during UNESCO's General Conference.

The UNESCO Youth Forum is an essential part of the UNESCO Youth Programme. Every two years since 1999, it has provided youth with the space to dialogue among themselves and with UNESCO and to share their enthusiasm and creativity.

This is a unique opportunity for youth to present not only their challenges but also ideas and solutions to Member States, during the General Conference, UNESCO’s highest decision-making body.

The UNESCO Youth Forum is shaped by and for youth at every step.

Young people have a voice, we just need to give them the space to be heard.

Gabriela RamosAssistant Director-General for Social and Human Sciences of UNESCO

Why the Forum?

A recent UN study shows that 70% of young people feel they do not have enough space to express themselves in public debates nor can they voice their concerns and ideas.

The UNESCO Youth Forum gives youth that space: here they have the opportunity to engage in discussion and debate, and to draw up proposals for action which reflect the needs and concerns of youth today.

Young people need this opportunity to connect and to be able to share experiences and lived realities and to learn from one another, as well as inspire to keep fighting for whatever they are fighting for.

Emma Inamutila TheofelusParticipant to the 11th UNESCO Youth Forum