The event brought together over 150 young persons, representatives of national and international organizations, NGO sector and media. It also included the launch of a youth photo exhibition, presentations by active youth volunteers and recognition and awarding of young people who have made a significant input in the country’s development. In addition s a concert with participation of popular Uzbek pop stars was organized. It should be mentioned that Shahriyor, popular young Uzbek rap singer became the face of International Youth Day 2009.

The theme for this year’s observance of International Youth Day is “Sustainability: Our Challenge. Our Future” and the event organizers have made every effort to ensure that the messages of the Day reach their primary intended audience - young people of Uzbekistan.

As part of International Youth Day celebration initiative, the organizers have also developed a TV public service announcement (PSA) with participation of Shahriyor, who added his voice in calling youth to take the sustainability path. The PSA has been broadcast by NTT Network country-wide to attract attention of youth that comprises over 60% of the country’s population, to the issue of sustainability and making sure young people realize that their say is very important for the future.

In addition, youth quiz has been conducted by Navruz and Toshkent radio stations and the winners were awarded during the Youth Event.

As stated by Ms. Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, UNFPA Executive Director, “Today, more than a billion and a half people are between the ages of 10 and 25 - the largest-ever youth generation - and they are approaching adulthood in a world their elders could not have imagined. The world has been hit by the food, financial and climate crises and many young people are eager to help steer our world into greater balance. It is often said that young people are our future. They are our present, too. It is today, and not tomorrow, that we must invest in young people and include them in solving the great challenges of our times.”

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon in his statement on the occasion of International Youth Day noted that “Young people often lead by example: practicing green and healthy lifestyles, or promoting innovative uses of new technologies, such as mobile devices and on-line social networks. They deserve our full commitment - full access to education, adequate healthcare, employment opportunities, financial services and full participation in public life. On International Youth Day, let us renew our pledge to support young people in their development. Sustainability is the most promising path forward, and youth can lead the way.”

International Youth Day was accepted by the UN General Assembly in 1999 and is marked in Uzbekistan for the fourth time this year. This day aims to attract attention to youth activities and reminds that young people play a great role in the future of each country.