WHO Strengthens Youth Engagement in Health Matters

The World Health Organization (WHO) is actively working to combat ageism and ensure that the voices of young people are heard in health matters. The organization is committed to engaging with young people as equal partners, rather than merely as recipients of services.

Over the past decade, WHO has significantly increased its collaboration with youth through various programs and initiatives. Twenty-five years ago, only a handful of WHO departments focused on adolescent health, whereas currently, over 15 departments promote adolescent health and involve them in designing solutions. The work covers a wide range of areas, including mental health, sexual and reproductive health, HIV, tuberculosis, menstrual health, and environmental health, as well as preventing noncommunicable diseases and promoting self-care.

In January 2022, WHO published its first report on its work concerning adolescent health, titled "Working for a brighter, healthier future." The report addresses various aspects such as research priorities, development of norms and standards, country-level action, and capacity building for meaningful engagement from youth. Four young writers from around the world contributed to the report, sharing their perspectives and experiences.

The organization has also established the WHO Youth Council, which will provide advice to WHO on health and development issues affecting young people. This is part of the broader United Nations Youth Strategy, aiming to strengthen partnerships with youth organizations, increase youth participation in decision-making, and leverage digital solutions for information dissemination.