August 12 — International Youth Day: history and traditions, the theme of the holiday in 2025

The International Youth Day is celebrated annually on August 12 in the world. The holiday takes place in different countries, including Russia. His task is to remind about the role of young people in the development and building of peace, as well as about the everyday problems that stand in their way. In 2025, the date falls on a Tuesday. About the history and traditions of this day and what topic it is dedicated to this year — in the material of Izvestia.

The history of International Youth Day

International Youth Day is a fairly young holiday. It was established by the United Nations (UN) in late 1999 and is part of the World Programme of Action, which sets out the policy framework and principles of individual States in order to improve the lives of the younger generation.

The celebration was first celebrated in 2000. Since then, it has been held all over the world. At the same time, International Youth Day should not be confused with World Youth Day, one of the first holidays of its kind, which appeared in 1945 thanks to the World Federation of Democratic Youth (WFDY) and is celebrated on November 10.

In addition, Russia has its own Youth Day, which is celebrated annually on the last Saturday of June (in 2025, the celebrations were held on the 28th). It is dedicated to all young people between the ages of 14 and 35.

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The theme of the International Youth Day in 2025

Every year, the organizers announce the theme of the International Youth Day. For example, the topics of the past years: "Youth in a society based on intergenerational interaction", "Joint fight against poverty: youth and poverty eradication", "Youth and climate change: time to act" and others.

This time, the day will be dedicated to the role of youth in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and adaptation to local conditions. "Youth implements the SDGs locally" is the theme of 2025. In this way, it is planned to emphasize the unique role of young people in local planning and decision-making. Moreover, a special place in this is given to the regional authorities.

"When local governments create opportunities for innovation, mentoring, and youth participation, they not only accelerate the implementation of the SDGs, but also nurture future leaders," the world organization's website emphasizes.

Since the celebration will take place on the eve of the 30th anniversary of the World Programme of Action for Youth, the main events will contribute to the preparation for the upcoming celebrations.

How to celebrate Youth Day on August 12

The UN has repeatedly stated that the international dates set by the organization are not holidays per se, but one of the important tools for raising awareness of the world community about certain issues of the greatest concern.

Therefore, the main focus is on the educational program. It usually includes round tables and forums for the exchange of opinions, reports on youth issues and the protection of their rights, exhibitions dedicated to various fields of youth activity, and other events.

The media produces thematic stories, as well as documentaries and broadcasts about prominent representatives of the youth movement and their achievements.

Entertainment events are sometimes organized in a number of cities. So, in Moscow, one of the festive venues will be VDNH. In honor of the International Youth Day, an educational tour will be held here on August 12, during which you can see authentic artifacts from different eras. And the Mikhailovsky Pond Park will host the Youth Day festival. The program includes fun contests and active tasks for all ages.

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