Under the theme “Dialogue and Mutual Understanding” the International Year of Youth was kicked off at UN Headquarters on 12 August – the International Day of Youth – and counted with the presence of Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon and a wide range of performances, videos and exhibitions produced by youth.

“The energy of youth can spark economies….The idealism and creativity of youth are some of the most important resources any country has”, said Mr. Ban. “I urge young people everywhere to look beyond the borders of your own country. Engage with the world. Be a global citizen. Exchange visits and communications across cultures are all building blocks of world peace and mutual understanding”, he added.

Video: http://webcast.un.org/ramgen/ondemand/specialevents/2010/se100812am-orig.rm?start=00:10:00&end=00:17:36 (7 minutes)

Full coverage: http://webcast.un.org/ramgen/ondemand/specialevents/2010/se100812am-orig.rm (2 hours 18 minutes)

Secretary-General’s message: http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2010/sgsm13042.doc.htm

International Year of Youth website: http://social.un.org/youthyear/