Commissioner Laveist congratulates the youth on International Youth Day
Commissioner responsible for Youth Affairs Louie Laveist, congratulates the entire youth population on the island on the occasion of International Youth Day, 12 August.
The theme this year is "Youth and Climate Change: Time for Action."
The deterioration of the global natural environment is one of the principal concerns of young people world wide as it has direct implications for their well-being both now and in the future.
The natural environment must be maintained and preserved for both present and future generations. The causes of environmental degradation must be addressed.
The environmentally friendly use of natural resources and environmentally sustainable economic growth will improve human life.
Sustainable development has become a key element in the programmes of many youth organizations throughout the world. While every segment of society is responsible for maintaining the environmental integrity of the community, young people have a special interest in maintaining a healthy environment because they will be the ones to inherit it.
The United Nations (UN) General Assembly on 17 December 1999 in its resolution 54/120, endorsed the recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth that 12 August be declared International Youth Day.