12 August 2009: In a message to mark International Youth Day, which is celebrated on 12 August, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon underscored that climate change “continues to compromise economies […] saddling young people everywhere with an unjust `ecological debt´.”

He noted that this year’s theme for the Day – “Sustainability: Our Challenge. Our Future” – is a global call to action for young people in sustainable development. He welcomed their contributions to the climate change debate, adding that their “views and proposals can help build the momentum necessary to “seal the deal” in Copenhagen later this year.” He concluded by calling for a renewed pledge to support young people in their development, noting they can lead the way towards sustainability. [UN press release]