DSRSG/RC/HC Ghulam Isaczai – Speech National Celebration of The International Youth Day

Excellency Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Ahmed Al-Mubarqaa, distinguished representatives of the Government of Iraq, partners, and most importantly - the young people of Iraq,

It is a privilege to join you today in celebrating International Youth Day - a day that honors the leadership, creativity, and resilience of young Iraqis who are shaping the future of their country and communities.

Across Iraq, youth are driving initiatives in education, climate action, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. This year’s theme, “Youth Localizing the Sustainable Development Goals,” reminds us that sustainable development must be rooted in local realities - and that young people are not only the beneficiaries of change, but they are its architects. And their voices are vital.

Today’s program reflects the Government of Iraq’s strong commitment to youth empowerment. The presentation of the National Youth Survey marks an important milestone - providing data and direction for inclusive policymaking. Equally significant are the outcomes of the youth consultations on the NDC, a powerful example of engaging young people on issues that directly shape their future, such as climate change. I look forward to learning more about these results and exploring how the United Nations can further strengthen its support to young people across Iraq.

The UN in Iraq stands united in its commitment to youth empowerment. Together with the Government of Iraq and partners, we continue to support education, employment, civic engagement, and digital access so that every young person can thrive. These efforts include:

• Establishing the UN Youth Advisory Council, bringing together 13 young leaders from across Iraq to guide our work and programs.
• Advancing youth employment and empowerment through vocational training in green and digital skills, expanding entrepreneurship opportunities - particularly for young women and those in underserved areas - and integrating life skills into education, already reaching thousands of adolescent girls.
• Elevating youth voices in peacebuilding and climate action, including through contributions to global frameworks such as Security Council Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace, and Security, and ensuring youth engagement in COP processes. 

Looking ahead, let us continue to:

• Invest in youth leadership by scaling up inclusive programs and increasing youth participation in decision-making processes and using data such as the National Youth Survey to inform policies that reflect youth realities. With elections approaching, it is vital that young people are engaged in governance and decision-making.
• Equip youth with future-ready skills in climate resilience, digital transformation, and sustainable agriculture, so they are prepared to thrive in tomorrow’s economy.
• Strengthen collaboration between government, international partners, and youth themselves - because lasting change can only come when all stakeholders work hand in hand.

To Iraq’s youth: your courage, creativity, innovation and commitment inspire us all. You are the future of this country, and your leadership is essential to building a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable Iraq.

On behalf of the United Nations, I thank you for your vision and your voice. We are proud to walk beside you.

Happy International Youth Day!