International Youth Day
Illuminate Conscience and Hope
Empower Youth to Build better future
Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze
Zhang-men-ren of Tai Ji Men
Vice President of the Association of World Citizens,
NGO in Consultative Status with ECOSOC and Associated with the UN DPI
President of the Federation of World Peace and Love
August 12, 2025
Distinguished guests, dear friends, ladies and gentlemen, good day!
At the moment when the United Nations approaches its 80th anniversary, we are here to celebrate International Youth Day — an occasion to reflect on the thoughtful intention behind the UN General Assembly's decision in 1999 to designate August 12 as a day to honor and uplift young people around the world. It reaffirms our continued commitment to supporting youth development in key areas such as education, employment, health, and civic participation. In the future, young generations will face increasingly challenging environments, alongside the rapid development and application of artificial intelligence. At this critical point, it is essential for everyone to keep pace with the ever changing dynamics. Amid rapid technological advancement, we must still preserve the well-being of our body, mind, and spirit. The young generation need the guidance to act with conscience and embrace hope. So that they can gain foresight and carry forward the mission of sustainable development for our planet.
By 2030, young people under the age of 30 will make up 57% of the global population. They are not only the ones bearing the brunt of existing multiple crises, but also the key force for transformation. Challenges such as war, climate change, economic inequality, youth unemployment, and educational disparities are growing more severe. While technological advancements bring new opportunities, they also widen the digital and resource disparity. To empower youth as a driving force for change, we must provide equal opportunities, enhance their capacity to face challenges, and support their physical and mental well-being. Encouraging young people to bravely pursue their dreams contributes to a culture of peace and nurtures responsible, compassionate global citizens, who is our hope for a sustainable future.
The United Nations’ approach to youth has evolved from a simple age-based classification to recognizing their essential role as agents of social change. In 2015, Security Council Resolution 2250 was the first to affirm the vital role of youth in peace processes and dispute resolution. The 2030 Sustainable Development Goals further highlight the importance of youth in education, employment, and climate action. This year, we welcome the 30th anniversary of the World Programme of Action for Youth. The world is reminded that youth are not only the hope of the future—they are active agents of change today. Only by empowering young people, providing them with resources, and ensuring their voices are heard can we build a just, resilient, and sustainable future.
In the face of today’s crises, conscience has emerged as a universal language—transcending systems, cultures, and conflicting interests—to guide humanity toward genuine solutions. Conscience is an inner moral compass that helps each individual discern right from wrong and remain steadfast in choosing what is good. When policymaking is guided by conscience, it can truly uphold inclusiveness and justice, addressing the structural issues that exclude youth from access to resources and decision-making. When young people act with conscience and turn their ideals into action, they can stand up to face the challenges and become leaders of positive transformation. Conscience elevates personal character, which in turn will lead to good governance, sound institutions, and responsible action. Conscience helps restore social trust and international order, turning conflict into peace and indifference into cooperation. Only through the awakening and practice of conscience can we truly empower youth and reinstate the world with humanity and hope.
The Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL) has long upheld conscience as its core driving force. From global advocacy to concrete action, it continues to pave a path of hope for youth and all humanity. On April 3, 2024, FOWPAL and the Permanent Mission of Kiribati to the United Nations worked together to produce a draft resolution. It was adopted at the 79th session of the UN General Assembly on March 4, 2025, officially proclaiming July 12 as the International Day of Hope. The resolution underscores that conscience and committed action are key to advancing peace and sustainability.
This echo the call for youth engagement emphasized on the International Youth Day. “Hope” is no longer an abstract concept—it becomes actionable for young people: from reflection and caring for others, to bravely taking responsibility and making contributions. Conscience becomes the spark that ignites the potential of youth, empowering them not only to endure the existing challenges, but to become leading forces of hope and solutions. Conscience and the power of hope enable each person to become a seed of hope, contributing to a collective force for positive change in the world. Together, we can realize a bright future shaped by the shared vision of International Youth Day and the International Day of Hope.
My prayer
All guided by Conscience, the Youth awaken
The Power of Hope illuminate the everlasting hope
Collectively we can foster peace and reverse the crisis
Let’s join hands moving forward to a brighter future