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By its resolution 64/134, adopted in December 2009, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the year 2011, International Year for Youth. Under the theme of dialogue and mutual understanding, it aims to promote the ideals of peace, respect for human rights and solidarity between generations, cultures, religions and civilizations.

The global launch of the International Year of Youth took place during the International Youth Day, on 12 August 2011.

On this occasion, the General Secretary of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon emphasized the power that young people use in shaping societies. He, then, urged the international community to support youth as partner and agent of change and development.

Under the theme "Accelerating Youth Empowerment for Sustainable Development" the Conference of Heads of State and Government had already, among other measures, decided "that all Member States should promote the agenda of youth and adopt policies and mechanisms for creating secure, decent and competitive jobs, by accelerating the implementation of the Action Plan for the Decade 2009-2018 and Action Plan 2004 in Ouagadougou on Promotion of Employment and the reduction of poverty; "

Therefore, UNI Africa encourages its members to commit themselves to implement policies and programs at national, regional and international level, in line with the conclusions of its Regional Conference held in 2009 in Hammamet, Tunisia.

This International Year for Youth is therefore an opportunity for UNI affiliates in Africa to show their willingness to integrate youth development activities for more dynamic and democratic organizations.