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International Youth Day - Building a Better World: Partnering with Youth
As the global sports community concludes its celebration of world-breaking records in the 2012 London Olympics, another global celebration takes place on Sunday, 12th August, albeit in a more quiet fashion. This day is celebrated as the “International Youth Day” and this year’s theme focuses on “Building A Better World: Partnering with Youth.”
In line with this, the SH&FPA is thrilled to see the themes related to this year’s celebrations include the much needed areas of sexual, reproductive health and rights, namely education, including sexual and reproductive health; political Inclusion; and protection of rights. SH&FPA has always been a valiant champion for the need to promote, protect and uphold the sexual and reproductive health and rights of all young people, including the right to information and education on sexuality. We strongly believe that comprehensive sexuality education is essential to help young people prepare for healthy and fulfilling lives. High quality information and comprehensive sexuality education can equip them with the knowledge, skills and attitudes they need to make informed choices now and in the future; to enhance their independence and self-esteem; and to help them experience their sexuality and relationships in a positive and pleasurable way.
We also welcome the efforts for political inclusion of young people as so often young people feel that they lack a voice in a debate which is about them, but rarely involves them, or that the reality of their lives and the development of their sexual identities are not understood. This results in many young people being either unable or reluctant to seek help when they need it, and may prevent them from giving input within policy and decision making processes.
SH&FPA joins the global community in celebrating the International Youth Day while reinforcing our commitment to work towards a world where every youth is included in discussions relating to their sexual health, well-being and rights. We call on our government to actively engage in dialogues with the youth before making decisions concerning them and to forge meaningful partnerships with youth in actions that involve them. This is what real partnership is all about.
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