On International Youth Day 2026, particular attention is being given to young people in Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States. They represent a substantial and growing share of the global youth population, yet many face significant barriers to quality education, decent work, digital access, financial security, and protection from the effects of climate change.
These challenges are serious, but they should not define how we see young people. International Youth Day provides a global platform to highlight both the challenges young people face and the critical role they play as drivers of change within their communities and beyond. Across these countries, young people are creating enterprises, developing local solutions, using digital tools, and strengthening community resilience.
Social, financial, and entrepreneurship education can help young people turn their aspirations into action. It builds the practical skills, confidence, and agency they need to save, plan, manage resources, develop livelihoods, and make responsible decisions.
For this education to be effective, it must reflect the realities in which young people live. This is central to Aflatoun’s approach. Across more than 100 countries, our partners adapt programmes to local languages, cultures, education systems, economic conditions, and the priorities of young people themselves.
Different contexts require different responses, but young people share common aspirations for dignity, opportunity, participation, and a sustainable future.
Let us empower young people with essential social, financial, and entrepreneurship education, so they can take control of their lives and play their full role as drivers of change within their communities and beyond.
12 August 2026