August 12, 2026. On the occasion of International Youth Day, we celebrate the energy, ideas, courage, creativity and determination of young people across the world.
Young people are not merely the leaders of tomorrow; they are the changemakers, innovators and leaders of today. Their voices, vision and actions are already shaping communities, nations and the future of our global society.
The world faces profound challenges, including climate change, global warming, armed conflicts, inequality, unemployment, displacement and growing threats to peace and security. These challenges cannot be addressed by governments and institutions alone. Meaningful and sustained youth participation is essential to building solutions that are inclusive, innovative and lasting.
Youth leadership must be rooted in peace, dialogue, sustainability, inclusion and humanity. In an increasingly interconnected world, young people have an extraordinary opportunity to use technology, education, media and innovation to build bridges across borders, cultures and communities.
On this International Youth Day, I call upon young people everywhere to raise their voices with courage, embrace responsibility, pursue knowledge and transform ideas into meaningful action. May the young generation continue to inspire positive change, strengthen peace and understanding and build a more inclusive, sustainable, prosperous and peaceful world for all.
Gautam Karve
Editor-in-Chief, WMO
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