On August 12, Georgia joined the global community in marking International Youth Day—a day dedicated to celebrating the potential, power, and voices of young people. From vibrant discussions in Kakheti to green initiatives in Khobi and Poti, youth across the country demonstrated that they are not just the future—they are active changemakers today.
This year’s celebrations in Georgia focused on three key areas young people consistently say they need most: knowledge, skills, and opportunities. As highlighted by recent UNICEF research, Georgian youth are eager to deepen their learning, engage with their communities, and take on leadership roles in shaping a better future.
From Climate Goals to Local Green Action
One of the highlights of Youth Day was the spotlight on young environmental leaders in Khobi and Poti, who are transforming global climate goals into local solutions. Through the “Greening the Future” initiative—supported by the Government of Denmark, the Embassy of Denmark in Georgia, UNDP, and CENN—these youth are advancing energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable transport, and eco-conscious living in their communities.
“As the future of our planet hangs in the balance, young people are not just imagining—but creating—a world where people and nature thrive together,” said project partners.
Earlier this summer, many of these young activists gathered at a Green Camp, where they exchanged ideas, built skills, and mapped out community-driven climate actions.
Sports for Peace in Conflict-Affected Villages
In Nikozi, a village affected by conflict, International Youth Day was preceded by a powerful event that used sport as a tool for peacebuilding and resilience. Young people and civil society organizations came together for a day of games with purpose—demonstrating that sport can break down barriers and foster solidarity.
“For youth living near conflict divides, sport is more than a game—it’s a powerful tool for inclusion and hope,” said Luka Metreveli, a rock climbing champion from Zemo Nikozi.
The initiative, organized under the #EU4Dialogue project, was supported by the European Union, UNDP, Step to Peace, and the Center for Environmental Policy and Education.
Dialogue for Inclusive Futures
In Kakheti, more than 110 young people engaged in open and inspiring discussions with Ambassador Anne Toft Sørensen of Denmark, UNDP Deputy Representative Nils Christensen, and local civic leaders. Hosted in partnership with Sakartvelo Regional Empowerment Foundation (SREF), the event centered on youth inclusion, education, and civic engagement.
“These conversations matter,” said one participant. “It’s important that decision-makers hear our ideas and understand the real challenges we face.”
The dialogue underscored the importance of empowering youth from diverse and underrepresented communities, ensuring their voices shape public life and local development.
As Georgia celebrated International Youth Day, one message rang clear: young people are not just beneficiaries of change—they are drivers of it. With the right support, opportunities, and platforms, they are leading the way toward a more inclusive, sustainable, and peaceful future for all.
By Team GT
