History is cyclical. While some negationists downplay the role that history plays in the present, it is evident that decisions made by past generations directly impact future generations both positively and negatively.
The group likely to face the adverse long term repercussions from the current coronavirus pandemic are today’s youth and tomorrow’s leaders. Globally, 90 percent of the 1.8 billion youth population (18 – 24 years) live in developing countries, with 600 million living in conflict or fragile situations, and are two times more likely to be unemployed. Many lack access to adequate social services and opportunities for meaningful engagement in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
COVID-19 has cast an even more grim outlook, with graduates no longer guaranteed access to formal employment. Insecure labour markets, family instability and new skills required for participation in a digital economy are facets of the “new normal”. We believe the future of young Caribbean citizens should not be compromised by this pandemic. Safeguarding their inheritance depends largely on our collective efforts as Governments, the private sector and civil society at large to empower them as change agents and provide a viable platform to help unleash their full potential. This is the time for innovation, cooperation and global change. It truly will take a village.
As the United Nations celebrates its 75th anniversary this October, our vision is to ensure the best possible outcomes for our planet and our youth. In January, the Secretary General launched the world’s largest conversation to promote solidarity and elicit solutions to the most pressing global challenges. I am calling on all young people to ‘Join the Conversation’ by taking the brief UN75 Survey (https://un75.online/ ) to share your voices on the future you want to see.
Be the change!
