Sustainability: Our Challenge. Our Future.
That is the theme selected by the United Nations to motivate the world for International Youth Day 2009. International Youth Day is an open door for Canadian youth, and youth throughout the world, to express concerns and ideas to sustain the planet through future generations. There is absolutely no doubt that our world is undergoing massive struggles right now—whether it’s the seemingly-eternal battle raging on between the western world and Middle Eastern theocracies, or the every-day tragedy of homelessness and hunger at home, the statement that we are a troubled world is irrefutable.
On the occasion of International Youth Day, Her Excellency The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean C.C., C.M.M., C.O.M., C.D., the Governor General of Canada, issued a message to Canadians (and particularly to Canadian youth). The Governor General touched on the many issues that ravage the Earth, and the key role that youth have to play when it comes to ensuring a brighter and sustainable future. Speaking to Canadian youth, Her Excellency said, “I am convinced that you have the determination, courage and power to turn things around and get involved, to establish a new era of innovation, social responsibility and solidarity.”
So, expanding on the Governor General’s message to Canadian youth, what role do you think that youth should be playing when it comes to national policy and strategy? Is youth participation and input an essential part of good government? Since a sustainable future is of such key relevance to youth, do they have a special or elevated role to play on matters of environment?
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