Zonta International encourages members to support youth engagement on International Youth Day

On International Youth Day, Zonta International celebrates young people and lifts up their voices, actions and initiatives.

The United Nations’ theme of International Youth Day 2020 is "Youth Engagement for Global Action." The UN "seeks to highlight the ways in which the engagement of young people at the local, national and global levels is enriching national and multilateral institutions and processes, as well as draw lessons on how their representation and engagement in formal institutional politics can be significantly enhanced."

In our increasingly polarized world, trust in public institutions is fading. Internationally, we are facing crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change. These challenges require joint global action and the meaningful engagement of young people.

Zonta International believes young people are critical to addressing global challenges, including achieving gender equality and ending violence against women and girls around the world. We encourage youth engagement through our Z and Golden Z clubs, made up of high school and college students, and  recognize 16- to 19-year-old women for demonstrating leadership skills and commitment to public service and civic causes through our Young Women in Public Affairs Award. 

"The youth and their passion for creating a better world are the key to a better and sustainable future," said Zonta International President Sharon Langenbeck. "To achieve gender equality and the Sustainable Development Goals, we must encourage youth engagement and recognize young people for their activism."

On International Youth Day, Zonta encourages its clubs and members to recognize youth engagement by partnering with, or highlighting the work of, Z and Golden Z clubs or a local youth-led organization.

12 August 202