Saudi Arabia's delegation highlighted the role of youth in sustainable development during the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum 2023. The event, which took place at the UN Headquarters in New York City on April 25-27, was organized under the theme of "Accelerating the COVID-19 Recovery and Full Implementation of the 2030 Agenda with and for Youth". It offered a unique opportunity for the next generation to engage directly with United Nations member states, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and other key international actors. The Saudi delegation, led by Othman Almoamar, advisor at the Ministry of Economy and Planning (MEP) and chair of Youth 20 Saudi Arabia, was joined by youth representatives from Mohammed Bin Salman Foundation "Misk" and Salam for Cultural Communication. Almoamar emphasized how the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated various challenges faced by youth in areas such as education, employment, and mental health. He stressed that although this has created an increased level of uncertainty, the youth group remains key to unlocking a more prosperous future for all nations, including the Kingdom. "Saudi Arabia's presidency in the G20 made it clear that youth was a priority, and championed the youth agenda heavily to include the Youth Employment Road map to 2025, which highlights its priority to partner with youth not only nationally but internationally," Almoamar said. The discussion of pathways for realizing sustainable development was high on the agenda throughout the ECOSOC Youth Forum 2023, which explored the progress made so far across several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), covering areas such as water and energy access, as well as the need to build more resilient communities. — SPA
