International Forum
Youth Rights: Possibilities and Mechanisms of Protection

Young people are between one-third and one-half of the global population. But they are one hundred percent of the future. And it is my firm conviction that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights provides us with the tools to ensure a peaceful, equitable and harmonious future for today's young people and future generations.

Our commemoration this year of the 75^th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is not about looking backwards.

Yes, it has helped to transform the world, to energise the struggle for independence from colonial rule, for personal, political, and economic freedom. Yes, it has enabled a surge of civil society organisations of every kind.

But we need to talk about today, about millions of young people who will carry forward this torch of freedom from fear and from want – this task of shaping the future of humanity.

Youth movements have inspired many of us with their far-reaching and forward-looking work to advance the right to a healthy planet and an inclusive future. The right to live free from discrimination, deprivation, and insecurity. The right to participate in the decisions that affect our lives.

Many young people face barriers and challenges because of their age, in areas from participation in politics and public decision making, to access to employment, access to health services, including to sexual and reproductive healthcare, and conscientious objection to military service, among others.

It is crucial that decision-makers, including governments and those in public and private institutions, hear the concerns of young people and take action to ensure that they fully enjoy their human rights and have a voice in decisions that affect their future.

This forum is one of the many important steps that Uzbekistan has taken in this direction.

It is an opportunity to spotlight the critical role of youth in building inclusive and peaceful societies. It is a platform for the young people of Central Asia to learn how to stand up for their rights and, importantly, to raise their challenges and concerns with decision-makers. Finally, it is a place where young people can reflect on what human rights mean to them, and what future they want for human rights.

Through the consultation held during this Forum, young people will contribute to the development of the Youth Declaration - one of the key outcomes of the Human Rights 75 Initiative which will be presented at our High-level Event in December.

I thank you all and wish you a fruitful discussion.