Today’s generation of children and young people is the largest in history, with most of them living in developing countries. They are critical agents of positive change and we welcome the important contributions of young people to peace and security, sustainable development and human rights. However, across our world, millions of children and young people are deprived of the conditions they need to reach their full potential and fulfil their human rights, especially those in vulnerable situations. Children and young persons continue to live in extreme poverty, without access to critical, basic services and respect for their fundamental rights. We recognize that, together with future generations, they will live with the consequences of our actions and our inaction. We will invest in and promote engagement by young people at national and international levels to secure a better future for all.
We recognize that children and youth are distinct groups from future generations. We must ensure that decision-making and policymaking today takes greater account of the needs and interests of the generations to come, and that they are balanced with the needs and interests of current generations. We have annexed a Declaration on Future Generations to the Pact for the Future that details our commitments in this regard.
ACTION 34. We will invest in the social and economic development of children and young people so that they can reach their full potential.
ACTION 35. We will promote, protect and respect the human rights of all young people and foster social inclusion and integration.
ACTION 36. We will strengthen meaningful youth participation at the national level.
ACTION 37. We will strengthen meaningful youth participation at the international level.