The UNESCO Youth Desk was established following the first UNESCO African Youth Forum (Burkina Faso, 2007) and the fifth UNESCO Youth Forum (Paris, 2007). The program aims to engage young people in UNESCO’s activities and development.

Objectives

1. Involve youth in UNESCO activities.
2. Promote youth contributions to peace, poverty eradication, and sustainable development.
3. Encourage participation in UNESCO Youth Desk initiatives.
4. Raise awareness of UNESCO’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Subgroups

The Youth Desk operates through seven thematic subgroups:

1. Civic Engagement: Fosters discussions on social, political, and community issues to inspire societal change.
2. Climate and Environmental Action: Addresses climate change through sustainable solutions and environmental education.
3. Culture: Celebrates diverse cultural heritage, including arts, language, and traditions, fostering unity.
4. Gender Equality: Advocates for equal rights and representation across all genders and vulnerable populations.
5. Health: Focuses on HIV/AIDS, sexual health rights, mental health, non-communicable diseases, and accessibility.
6. Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Encourages creativity, business innovation, and entrepreneurial growth.
7. Technology: Explores technological advancements, software, hardware, and digital innovation.