In December 2009, the General Assembly adopted resolution 64/134 which proclaimed the year commencing 12 August 2010 as the iIternational Year of Youth under the theme: Dialogue and mutual understanding. As 12 August is the iIternational Youth Day, the year will be launched on this significant day for young people.

The international year of youth is expected to generate much needed attention for youth participation and youth development and provide an impetus to partnerships among youth organizations around the world. Youth organizations, governments, and civil society are encouraged to organize activities throughout the year that promote an increased understanding of the importance and benefits of youth participation in all aspects of society, as well as those that support youth to devote their energy, enthusiasm and creativity to development and the promotion of mutual understanding. The year also serves as encouragement for young people to dedicate themselves to fostering progress towards the attainment of the un millennium development goals.