UN China and partners mark International Youth Day 2026

Representatives and guests pose for a group photo during the International Youth Day 2026 dialogue in Beijing, Aug. 12, 2026. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The United Nations in China and its partners marked International Youth Day 2026 with a dialogue event in Beijing on Aug. 12, bringing together young people and representatives from government, civil society, academia, the private sector and development organizations to discuss how policies, partnerships and youth-led innovation can help young people realize their aspirations and contribute to sustainable development.

Held under the theme "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations," participants discussed a range of issues shaping young people's lives and opportunities, including education and employment, digital inclusion and safety, health and well-being, rural revitalization and climate change.

In his opening remarks, professor Shahbaz Khan, U.N. resident coordinator ad interim and UNESCO China representative, highlighted the importance of creating conditions for young people to develop their capabilities and participate as equal partners in shaping their futures. Khan said, "The United Nations in China is committed to working with the government, youth organizations and partners to expand opportunities for young people, strengthen their meaningful participation and ensure that their perspectives inform sustainable development."

Professor Shahbaz Khan, U.N. resident coordinator ad interim and UNESCO China representative, delivers his opening remarks during the International Youth Day 2026 dialogue in Beijing, Aug. 12, 2026. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

China's commitment to youth development was also highlighted during the discussion. Liu Kai, deputy secretary-general of the All-China Youth Federation, noted that the Outline of the 15th Five-Year Plan includes a dedicated section on youth development for the first time, creating "favorable conditions for young people to grow, develop their talents and make outstanding contributions."

Three panel discussions at the event focused on how global and national priorities can be translated into concrete action. Participants explored practical approaches including listening to young people and using evidence to inform responsive policies, supporting youth-led ideas and innovations, including climate-smart and disability-inclusive solutions.

Representatives interact during the International Youth Day 2026 dialogue in Beijing, Aug. 12, 2026. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The discussions also highlighted opportunities to strengthen connections between young people in China and their peers in other developing countries. Lei Pili, deputy director-general of the Global Development Promotion Center of the China International Development Cooperation Agency, emphasized the important role of international cooperation in expanding opportunities for young people, including through youth-focused practical cooperation projects and partnerships between China and the United Nations.

For international partners, China's approach to integrating youth development into national development planning also offers experience that can be shared with other developing countries. Nadia Rasheed, UNFPA representative and chair of the U.N. Theme Group on Youth, noted that China's emphasis on long-term planning, setting development goals and coordinating action across sectors provides an important reference for translating national priorities into concrete results.

Representatives interact during the International Youth Day 2026 dialogue in Beijing, Aug. 12, 2026. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

She also highlighted the role of the U.N. Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework in China, which closely aligns with the country's 15th Five-Year Plan, and brings together government, civil society, the private sector and other partners to support national development priorities.

Throughout the dialogue, participants stressed that young people should not be viewed merely as beneficiaries of development, but as active partners in shaping the policies and solutions that affect their lives and future.