On April 27, 2015 Georgian Parliament’s Gender Equality Council, UNFPA Georgia and European Youth Parliament – Georgia organized the Youth National Forum. The event took place at Holiday Inn Tbilisi.

Representatives of the Parliament of Georgia, the Government of Georgia, European Youth Parliament, various youth, local and international organizations participated in the event.

The goal of the Youth National Forum was to advocate for the increased investment in adolescents and youth development and the realization of their rights for ensuring sustainable development of the country.

Participants of the Forum had a chance to listen to the youth perspectives regarding their needs; the main priorities for the implementation of ICPD beyond 2014 programme of action (ICPD Beyond 2014 framework of action) were also presented. During the day several plenary sessions and discussions took place, where participants reviewed possibilities of improving the youth development environment; and present implemented or planned actions in Georgia in this regard. Recommendations for the youth development and realization of their rights, and national implementation of the ICPD beyond 2014 global priorities were developed during the Forum.

“In 2014 the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) conducted the Population Situational Analysis (PSA) of Georgia, which revealed that insufficient attention is paid to the needs of youth in the field of reproductive health. Service providers do not have relevant skills and knowledge for providing youth with adequate information, or effectively rendering consultations and confidential services. At the same time, it should be mentioned that significant gaps exist in the area of informing (raising awareness) and educating young people about healthy lifestyle, sexual and reproductive health and rights thereto.

Adolescents and youth represent the key segment of the population crucial for the development of the country and the future in general. Increased investments in youth as a future human capital, their education and healthcare will ensure sustainable development of the country, which is achievable only through multi-sectorial approach,” – Lela Bakradze, Assistant Representative of the United Nations Population Fund Georgia County Office.

The Youth National Forum was organized within the framework of UN Joint Programme “To Enhance Gender Equality in Georgia” through generous support of the Swedish Government.