Winter Global Youth Forum 2021

25 January - 5 February 2021 The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted every aspect of our lives. Even before the onset of the crisis, the social and economic integration of young people was an ongoing challenge. Now, unless urgent action is taken, young people are likely to suffer severe and long-lasting impacts from the pandemic. ILO surveys show that existing inequalities will worsen, and gains will slide backward. Building a sustainable future requires the energy, creativity, and initiative of young people around the world. In this Forum we discussed the future we want with experts from the United Nations, Private Sector, International NGOs and Academia. Participants connected with top leaders and passionate peers, built their skills, and gained the knowledge you need to make a difference in the world. Together with other young leaders, participants explored strategies to help create decent jobs for youth, so societies and economies can build back better. OBJECTIVES • Build an in-depth understanding of the SDGs and the roles of various stakeholders in their achievement. • Identify how young people can become a part of the solution of the new normal you want to build • Share your vision and innovate for COVID-19 coping mechanisms for youth • Expand your network and get inspired by high-level international experts and peers passionate about sustainable development. • Unleash your potential and develop your soft skills to bring about change. CONTENT The two-week Youth Forum focused on the following main areas: • The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development • The work of UN agencies, International NGOs, Civil society and Private sector in a changing world • How the UN Global Initiative on Decent Jobs for Youth aims to improve young peoples’ livelihoods • Youth leadership and how young people can engage in and influence the international agenda and contribute to sustainable development • Participation of vulnerable groups, including vulnerable youth in inclusive development • Leadership and soft skills, including tips for career development to translate aspirations into actions The course covered, among other, the following topics: • sessions on the UN Sustainable Development Agenda and SDGs • discussions with international experts from the UN System, Private sector, International NGOs and Civil Society • practical workshops on how to create innovative solutions to include vulnerable groups to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Agenda • the Leadership and Career Lab with international coaches • informal exchanges with young leaders and professionals