Youth inclusion crucial for sustainable development: Yunus

Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus emphasized that youth inclusion is essential for achieving sustainable global progress, particularly in combating unemployment, which remains one of the greatest challenges.

Speaking at a high-level meeting during the 30th anniversary of the Global Youth Programme on September 25 in New York, Yunus highlighted the vast potential technology offers for youth inclusion but cautioned against letting greed obstruct its benefits.

Reflecting on his personal experiences, Yunus shared the significant role youth played in reshaping Bangladesh's political landscape by ending decades of autocracy and guiding the nation towards democratic reforms. He stressed that youth, as agents of change, are disproportionately affected by issues such as inequality, conflict, climate change, and digital divides.

The Chief Adviser outlined Bangladesh’s efforts to empower youth, including the introduction of a national youth entrepreneurship policy aimed at transforming job seekers into job creators. He underscored the importance of global cooperation in empowering youth, warning that failure to do so could lead to widespread unrest.

Yunus concluded by emphasizing that empowering youth with rights, safety, and decision-making opportunities is critical for the future of both the planet and society.