Statement by Sharek Youth Forum
On the Occasion of International Youth Day – 12 August

While the world celebrates youth as a creative force and builders of the future, the youth of Palestine stand in the face of an exceptional and harsh reality, where they are subjected daily to genocide, imprisonment, assault, abuse, and injury, paying the price of their steadfastness and love for life with their blood and years. An entire generation has grown up deprived of its right to elections, amid the occupation’s measures and daily violations that restrict public spaces, limit movement, and target all forms of community and political participation.

Despite all this, today's generation reaches the world through its digital platforms, which have become free spaces reflecting their authentic narrative and delivering their messages to people everywhere, countering narratives of distortion and misinformation. Our youth call on the youth of the world, student movements, political frameworks, activists, and free parties to take immediate action to stop the genocide, end this historic injustice against the Palestinian people, and pressure their governments and institutions to uphold the values of freedom and justice.

On this International Youth Day, Sharek Youth Forum reaffirms its unwavering commitment to defending the rights of Palestinian youth and providing the spaces and platforms that enable them to express themselves, innovate, and actively participate in shaping their future. The youth of Palestine are the vanguard, the guardians of the dream, and the makers of tomorrow, and they will remain a symbol of determination and dignity.

Sharek Youth Forum
12 August 2025