Luang Prabang, Lao PDR – October 6-8, 2024 – The third ASEAN Youth Dialogue (AYD) is underway in Luang Prabang, Lao PDR from 6-8 October 2024, with the theme “Enhancing Comprehensive and Resilient Supports for Sustainable ASEAN Youth Development”. The event, organized by the Lao Youth Union in collaboration with UNFPA and UNICEF, brought together 33 senior officials and youth representatives from across ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste to tackle pressing regional challenges and shape the future of ASEAN youth development.
With the youth population projected to exceed 220 million by 2038 in the ASEAN region, young people are vital as change-makers and innovators. The ongoing AYD is fostering discussions on health, well-being, education, entrepreneurship, and social inclusion, with youth identifying solutions and offering recommendations at the culmination of the Dialogue.
H.E. Mr. Monexay Laomuaxong, Secretary General of the Lao Youth Union, stated:
Investing in youth is crucial for the prosperity of our region. Their health, education, employment and empowerment are essential for ensuring that young people have a good quality of life, along with economic and social stability, to advance sustainable development. This dialogue provides a vital platform for youth to express their aspirations and concerns. Together, we can shape an inclusive and sustainable future for all ASEAN youth.
The active involvement of ASEAN youth is also essential for accelerating digital transformation and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, and the resulting statement will be delivered to ASEAN leaders at the ASEAN Summit hosted by Lao PDR in 2024.
Mr. Bakhodir Burkhanov, UN Resident Coordinator in Lao PDR, emphasized the critical role of youth in regional development. He addressed youth delegates saying:
As youth leaders you come from different walks of life. You are innovators, entrepreneurs, advocates for development, justice and sustainability. You have the potential of transforming the communities you live in, influencing the region as a whole – and doing so for the good of everyone.
Over the three-day dialogue, the ASEAN youth representatives will engage in discussions which highlight the importance of digital skills, sexual and reproductive health, and economic empowerment.
Mr. Pio Smith, UNFPA Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, emphasized,
Youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the agents of change today. By harnessing the diverse voices and creativity of ASEAN youth, they will be able to drive meaningful progress and ensure that every young person feels empowered and included in our journey toward a sustainable future.
The event will conclude with the finalization and endorsement of the ASEAN Youth Statement, which will present recommendations for strengthening regional cooperation and supporting sustainable development initiatives for youth across ASEAN.
Ms. June Kunugi, Regional Director for UNICEF East Asia & Pacific, added,
The future of ASEAN depends on investing in youth today. We especially need to ensure that girls have the opportunities they deserve to learn, lead, and succeed. Together, we must work towards creating pathways for girls to stay in school, pursue careers and aspirations, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Following the dialogue, the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with Representatives of ASEAN Youth 2024 will take place on October 9-10, 2024, in Vientiane Capital, where delegates will share and discuss the outcomes directly with ASEAN leaders.
