The Head of the Russian delegation and Head of Rosmolodezh, Grigory Gurov, spoke at the plenary session titled “Youth Leadership, a critical force in shaping a sustainable and inclusive future for all” at the UN ECOSOC Youth Forum. The Head of the agency noted that youth and children are a national priority for Russia, which is why the country is undertaking extensive efforts to create opportunities for young people’s self-realization—ranging from educational projects, forums, and educational trips across Russia to grant support and career guidance programs. At the same time, one of the key areas of focus is the development of international youth cooperation.
“By decision of President Vladimir Putin, international youth events are organized annually in Russia. Last year, the World Festival Assembly brought together 2,000 participants from 120 countries. This September, Ekaterinburg will host the International Festival of Youth. Ten thousand leaders from different countries and ethnic groups, who are ready to take responsibility for the future of the entire planet, will gather in Russia—a country of limitless opportunities. The festival will serve as a platform for dialogue on a multipolar world, for the exchange of experiences and achievements in various fields, and as a meeting place for like-minded people, the birth of new ideas, and cooperation,” noted Grigory Gurov, Head of Rosmolodezh.
Speaking at the UN, the Head of the agency stated that sustainable development and the preservation of peace require the combined efforts of young people from around the world, and invited forum participants to join the International Festival of Youth, which will take place in Ekaterinburg from September 11 to 17.
In addition, in his speech, Grigory Gurov highlighted the special role of volunteering in fostering a culture of mutual aid and creative work among young people. He invited the participating countries of the UN ECOSOC Forum to form national delegations to participate in the International Forum on Civic Engagement #WEARETOGETHER—the main platform in Russia for the development of volunteering and the exchange of best practices in organizing assistance to people.
“Circumstances should not hinder the development of a culture of mutual aid. Russia’s volunteer movement numbers more than 21 million people. For more than five years, volunteers from the #WEARETOGETHER project have been helping to address the aftermath of natural disasters around the world, rebuilding homes, schools, and hospitals, and restoring people’s faith that they are not alone by extending a helping hand to all who need it. And during the International Year of Volunteers, proclaimed by the UN, it becomes clear: good deeds are a language understood throughout the world. In December, we will meet again at the #WEARETOGETHER International Forum and thank those who choose constructive work, share our values, and are open to dialogue. We invite your delegations as well,” noted Grigory Gurov, head of Rosmolodezh.
On this day, a meeting was also held with Felipe Paullier, Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, during which they discussed joint initiatives to support youth leadership, as well as strengthening cooperation between Russia and the UN in the field of international youth cooperation, including through UN internship programs for young people from Russia.
“This is the first time we’ve met on the sidelines of the UN ECOSOC Youth Forum, but I can say that it underscores the importance of the youth agenda for Russia. We would like to learn more about Russia’s potential in developing international youth cooperation, as your country is actively engaged in international youth forums. In addition, our Office strives to ensure broad regional representation among its staff, and we would be delighted to have young people from Russia join our work who are ready to try their hand at the UN,” noted Felipe Paullier, Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs.
During bilateral meetings, discussions were held with the heads of the delegations from Serbia and Saudi Arabia, during which they discussed international youth cooperation, a willingness to exchange experiences in the field of project management, and the development of international cooperation in the field of volunteering. During the meetings, Grigory Gurov also invited the delegates to participate in the International Festival of Youth and to form delegations to take part in the event.
Overview:
The World Youth Festival took place on March 1–7, 2024 at “Sirius”, according to the Decree of Russian President Vladimir Putin on the development of international youth cooperation. The WYF-2024 brought together 20,000 young leaders from 190 countries.
In accordance with the instructions of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin on preserving and developing the legacy of the World Youth Festival, festival events on the territory of the Russian Federation will be held annually. The World Youth Festival Assembly was held in Nizhny Novgorod in 2025 and brought together 2,000 young people from 120 countries. In 2026, the International Festival of Youth will be gather 10,000 participants. The next World Youth Festival for 20,000 participants will be held in 2030.
The World Youth Festival Directorate continues the work aimed at strengthening international youth cooperation and developing a community of young people who care about the future of the world.