Expanding role of children and youth in sustainable development

This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities. Agenda 21 recommends advancing the role of youth and actively involving them in the protection of the environment and the promotion of economic and social development. Agenda 21 also recommends that UNICEF, UNESCO, UNDP and non-governmental organizations should develop support programmes to involve young people and children in environment and development issues, such as children's and youth hearings and building on decisions of the World Summit for Children.

UNESCO's programme includes the following: fostering the participation of young people in development projects and activities, as well as their contribution to international understanding, peace, human rights and democracy.