The United Nations is increasingly focused on the needs and perspectives of young people worldwide. A newly established Office for Youth, led by Assistant Secretary-General Felipe Paullier, is spearheading efforts to amplify youth voices and address critical issues facing the next generation.
A Focus on Youth Engagement
Paullier’s path to the UN began with a long-held connection to the organisation’s values and experience working with the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), UNICEF, and the UN Development Programme (UNDP) during his time with the Uruguayan government. He was selected by UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed to lead the first UN Office for Youth after studying for a master’s degree at the University of Florida.
The Office’s first year has been dedicated to building a team and identifying ways to best support existing youth organizations and member states. The core mission, according to Paullier, is to collaborate, disseminate information, and raise awareness regarding the interests and concerns of young people globally.
Three Key Agendas
The UN Office for Youth is prioritizing its work around three central agendas: participation, peace and security, and mental health and well-being. The participation agenda aims to ensure new generations are included in decision-making processes, fostering collaboration between civil society and the United Nations.
Recognizing the current global landscape, the peace and security agenda highlights the role young people are already playing in advocating for an end to conflicts. The third priority, mental health and well-being, addresses a growing crisis affecting young people worldwide, stemming from factors like hopelessness, digital hate speech, and limited opportunities.
To address this, the Office is promoting a Global Youth Mental Health and Well-being Initiative, which has already engaged over 600 youth-led organizations in more than 80 countries, impacting over 13 million people – 81 percent of whom are young.
Navigating the Digital Age
A key component of the mental health agenda involves understanding the impact of technology and social media. The Office recognizes the paradox of increased interconnectedness alongside growing isolation, and the challenges posed by algorithmic bubbles and online aggression. The UN Charter, with its emphasis on dialogue, diversity, and international cooperation, remains a guiding principle in navigating these complexities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the three main areas of focus for the UN Office for Youth?
The three main areas are participation, peace and security, and mental health and well-being.
How many organizations are currently involved in the Global Youth Mental Health and Well-being Initiative?
More than 600 youth-led organizations in over 80 countries are currently involved.
Who selected Felipe Paullier to lead the UN Office for Youth?
Amina Mohammed, the UN Deputy Secretary-General, selected Felipe Paullier.
As the UN Office for Youth continues to develop, how might its efforts to include young people in decision-making processes evolve to ensure truly representative and impactful outcomes?
