Just over ten years ago, IPU Member Parliaments adopted a landmark resolution on youth participation in the democratic process, calling for the elimination of all forms of discrimination based on age, in accordance with the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The resolution also called on the IPU, parliaments, youth organizations and other relevant stakeholders to support and increase the representation and participation of youth, young women and young men alike, in parliament and political decision-making.

Despite tentative progress, the level of youth representation in parliament, as measured regularly by the IPU, remains low. Half the world’s population is under 30, while only 2.8% of MPs globally are under 30. Young people continue to face age-based discrimination and obstacles to the enjoyment of their rights, limiting their potential.

To mobilize young MPs on solutions from a policy-making perspective, the IPU is organizing the seventh online briefing of its Empowerment Series for young parliamentarians on Human rights of youth to mark International Youth Day and the Human Rights 75 Initiative leading up to the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on 10 December 2023. The briefing will also provide an opportunity to take stock of progress made in the implementation of the joint Call to Action on young women’s political participation and leadership, issued by the IPU and the Office of the United Nations Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth in March 2021.

IPU Member Parliaments are invited to register one young male and one young female parliamentarian to participate in the briefing.

Simultaneous interpretation will be available in English, French, Spanish and Arabic.