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Annual high-level panel discussion on human rights mainstreaming: A reflection on five years of UN Youth 2030: mapping a blueprint for next steps. - Joint Statement on behalf of India, the EU and a group of over 80 countries

01.03.2023 Press and information team of the Delegation to the UN in Geneva

Mr. President,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of India, the European Union and its Member States, and a group of other countries across the regions, representing over 80 countries in total.

We welcome the focus of this year's High-level Panel Discussion on Human Rights Mainstreaming on Youth. Young persons are powerful agents of change for our societies, and for the well-being of our planet. We recognise the significant contribution of young persons towards building a more inclusive, just, and sustainable future. Young persons worldwide are essential partners especially in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda; the Paris Agreement; the Women, Peace and Security Agenda; the Youth, Peace and Security Agenda; and the World Programme for Human Rights Education.

Yet global crises and instability disproportionately impact young persons, especially girls and young women, and young persons in vulnerable situations who increasingly face multiple and intersecting challenges which impair the enjoyment of their human rights. The climate crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic have exacerbated gender inequalities and increased the digital divide in education. We believe that youth advocacy can be a force for a sustainable recovery.

Mr. President,

We call for a digital transformation in education that ensures access to inclusive quality education for all without discrimination of any kind.

We also call for the further promotion of full, equal and meaningful participation of young persons, including girls and young women, young persons in vulnerable situations, and youth organisations, in decision-making at all levels. We stress the need for the protection of young activists and human rights defenders across the world.

Only by engaging and working for and with youth, supporting them in standing up for their human rights and creating the conditions allowing them to play an active role, can we achieve enduring peace, security, justice, climate resilience, and sustainable development for all.

Thank you.