Secretary-General Stresses Role of Empowered Young Men, Women in Message for International Youth Day

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message on International Youth Day, in New York today:

Hello, everyone.  I’m truly happy to address you on International Youth Day.

As Secretary-General of the United Nations, I am committed to the empowerment and inclusion of every young person around the world.  In this spirit, I have appointed an impressive new Youth Envoy, Jayathma Wickramanayake.  She is the youngest member of my team — and one of the most important.

Governments must work with young people to successfully achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.  Empowered young men and women can play a critical role in preventing conflicts and ensuring sustainable peace.

Join us in mobilizing young people.  Together we can create a peaceful world for generations to come.