2022 International Youth Day: Take Part! Build the Future!

BWI’s young trade unionists join the different youths of the world in celebrating this year’s International Youth Day, a day designated by the United Nations (UN) to draw attention to youth issues worldwide. Carrying the theme “Youth in Unions Take Part, Build the Future,” BWI Youth strongly encourages young workers to become active in trade unions and participate in the building of a broad workers’ agenda that would shape a better future for all. BWI’s young trade unionists believe that unions remain a strategic organisation for workers to advance their interests in workplaces, and society in general.

BWI Youth makes this call amidst a multiple global crisis on the areas of health, the economy, peace and security. COVID-19 continues to threaten the health and lives of the working people, and worldwide youth unemployment is soaring as a result of the pandemic. The current war in Ukraine is also exacerbating this crisis by undermining peace efforts and radically inflating the prices of oil, which consequently increases the prices of food and other basic commodities beyond the reach of the workers’ meager salaries. 

Aside from these, young people continue to confront the worsening violence, discrimination and social inequality in their schools and communities, as well as the proliferation of illegal drugs. 

Thus, BWI Youth calls on our trade union affiliates to fight for sound social, economic, and political environments where all working young people can fully realise their potential and have equal access to opportunities. 

We also call on governments to prioritise policies that will address youth unemployment and social exclusion, youth-targeted ageism in workplaces and precarious jobs.

Lastly, we call on the international community to secure global peace and political stability to preserve democracy and allow for the realisation of sustainable industries committed to decent and green jobs.  

Our activities leading to and in the course of  this year’s International Youth Day reflect our resolve in promoting these calls.  

Lebohang Vincent RAMABOLU

BWI International Youth Committee Chair