A new BIC contribution to the 7th Annual ECOSOC Youth Forum stresses the role rising generations can play in building vibrant and healthy communities.

“The experience of the Baha'i worldwide community suggests that young people have a significant role to play in transforming society. When youth are taken seriously and resources are channeled towards different programs that raise their capacity to become significant actors in processes of community change, the results can be striking,” states the contribution.

The contribution also features four videos embedded within it. The videos break out the main points of the contribution, and seek to further examine the role of rising generations of youth in leadership, the importance of meaningful work and service, and in creating a culture of friendship.

“This contribution highlights the first steps that young people can take towards creating vibrant and healthy communities, while also considering the qualities and capacities required to be effective,” said Saphira Rameshfar, a representative of the Baha'i International Community to the United Nations.

Over 700 people, including Youth Ministers, members of National Youth Councils and youth-led and focused organizations attended the 2018 ECOSOC Youth Forum, held 30-31 January 2018.

The Forum is the largest gathering of young people at the United Nations, and offers a unique opportunity for youth to voice their opinions, share ideas, and collectively consider what they can do to achieve sustainable development together with Member States.

The full contribution, with the videos, can be viewed at here.