“Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Youth Office”
New York, 25th August 2025.
Mr. President,
Cyprus aligns with the statement delivered by the European Union. Allow me to make some additional remarks in my national capacity.
At the outset, Cyprus welcomes the third report of the Secretary General on the United Nations Youth Office. We are pleased to note the progress and milestones described therein, and especially the impact of the Office across all three pillars.
My delegation expresses full support to the mandate of the Youth Office. We commend the leadership of the Youth Office for advancing Youth2030, strengthening partnerships, advancing youth affairs in the United Nations system, as well as for all the efforts to strengthen meaningful youth engagement at all levels.
Furthermore, Cyprus welcomes the launching of the strategic plan 2025-2028, and we highlight the importance of the engagement of the Youth Office with Permanent Missions.
Mr. President,
Young persons form the backbone of our societies as agents of positive change. Their contributions are indispensable in promoting peace and security, advancing sustainable development, and upholding human rights.
Cyprus is a strong supporter of the full, equal, and meaningful participation of young persons in decision-making processes at all levels: local, national, regional, and international – including here at the United Nations.
We welcome that one of the key priorities of the Youth Office is to enhance youth participation in intergovernmental bodies, mechanisms, and processes across the United Nations system, and we recognize the visible and growing participation of youth in key processes.
In the same vein, allow me to underline that also at national level, Cyprus’ Government is implementing programmes and actions on meaningful youth participation, with a special focus on giving young persons the opportunity to shape national policies. Cyprus is also in the process of drafting a new “National Youth Strategy”, through a participatory approach.
Mr. President,
Young persons are agents of positive change for peace and security worldwide, including Cyprus. They are in the forefront of identifying innovative solutions to regional and global challenges.
The landmark Security Council Resolution 2250/2015 on “Youth, Peace and Security”, together with the Pact for the Future adopted last September, have laid a critical foundation for advancing youth participation and the Youth, Peace and Security agenda. In this regard, we highlight the importance of the agreement to formally establish a dedicated secretariat aiming at enhancing and streamlining the United Nations system-wide coordination on youth, peace and security.
Mr. President,
To conclude, Cyprus reiterates its full support for the mandate and work of the United Nations Youth Office. In the eve of celebrating the 30th anniversary of the World Programme of Action for Youth, but also in the context of UN80, we must remain committed in ensuring that the voices of young persons are not only heard, but are reflected in the decisions that shape our shared future.
I thank you.