UNITED NATIONS, New York — Ministers and government officials from more than 100 countries, as well as representatives of youth organizations, businesses and civil society, will meet here on Monday, 17 July, to explore the significant contributions young people make to their countries’ development, particularly to eliminating poverty.

In countries with large youth populations, young people who are educated, empowered and employed can boost development. Growing up healthy and educated, and free from dangers such as child marriage, young people tend to have fewer children and are able to earn, save and invest more money in themselves and the economy. This boost in growth is known as a demographic dividend, and can contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by the year 2030. However, such a dividend is only possible where health, education, decent work and the right policies are in place.

The event is being convened by the Presidents of the United Nations General Assembly and of the Economic and Social Council, with support from UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, and other partners.

WHAT:                   
High-level event on investing in youth to eradicate poverty and promote prosperity

WHEN:                   
1:15 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. on Monday, 17 July 2017

WHERE:               
Delegates’ Dining Room, United Nations, New York

WHO:                     
Peter Thomson, President of the United Nations General Assembly
Ambassador Fredrick Musiiwa Makamure Shava, President of United Nations Economic and Social Council
Dr. Natalia Kanem, UNFPA Acting Executive Director
Jayathma Wickramanayake, UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth
Bryan Varela, Latin American and Caribbean Youth Alliance

Journalists interested in attending must R.S.V.P. by Friday, 14 July to:

Eddie Wright, UNFPA: +1 212 297 2717; Cell: +1 917 831 2074; ewright@unfpa.org; or
Dan Thomas, Office of the President of the General Assembly: Cell: +1 917 225 1913; daniel.thomas@un.org