Ensuring Safe Spaces for Youth in International Youth Day 2018

Every year the 12th of August sees the commemoration of International Youth Day (IYD). The theme for International Youth Day 2018 is “Safe Spaces for Youth”.

This year’s event will facilitate a dialogue on safe spaces between governments, UN agencies, academia, civil society, and -most importantly- youth groups, with the goal of offering practical solutions to the challenges of creating youth-friendly spaces.

This year International Youth Day is defined as ensuring safe spaces for youth where they can come together, engage in activities related to their diverse needs and interests, participate in decision making processes and freely express themselves.

SERAC-Bangladesh along with RHRN-Bangladesh is going to commemorate this event across the 8 divisions in Bangladesh including the capital Dhaka. The event aims to promote youth engagement and empowerment by exploring the role of safe spaces in contributing to freedom of expression, mutual respect and constructive dialogue.

Celebration of International Youth Day 2018 in Dhaka division.

All the 8 divisions have celebrated this day by arranging cycle marching. Many more are coming! #SafeSpace4Youth #RHRN #SERAC_Bangladesh #IYD2018 pic.twitter.com/36cR4Ki3Xk

— SERAC-Bangladesh (@SERAC_BD) August 12, 2018

This campaign was intended to focus on the meaningful participation of young people to ensure safe space with the dignity; enable youth to engage in social issues; afford youth the opportunity to participate in sports and other leisure activities in the community; help youth interact virtually across borders with everyone; and help accommodate the needs of diverse youth especially those vulnerable to marginalization or violence. As planned, the cycle rally provided a platform and brought together 360 young leaders from the 8 divisions, young advocates, and experts on their basic rights, ensuring safe space, sexual and reproductive health of youth.