The action plan adopted by Governments at the 1993 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Agenda 21, provides the basis of the Division's work in general and its work with young people in particular. This Agenda recognizes children and youth as a major group --

that is, a segment of society that has a special and significant role to play in achieving sustainable development -- development that improves living standards while protecting the environment. The Division's relevant activities focus on helping young people bring their views and priorities to the annual and inter-sessional meetings of the Commission on Sustainable Development, including its analytical reporting process. An overall strategy is to ensure that joint activities with young people are led by youth themselves. The Division's work with youth and other major groups has generated positive participatory precedents for Agenda 21 follow-up.

Contact:

Ms. Zehra Aydin
Major Groups Focal Point
Division for Sustainable Development
Department of Economic and
Social Affairs
Room DC2-2262
United Nations
New York, NY 10017, U.S.A.

Tel.: (212) 963-8811Fax: (212) 963-1267

E-mail: aydin@un.org