Youth Observer to the UN Publishes 2025-2026 American Youth Priorities Report
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Washington, D.C. (May 1, 2026) – The United Nations Association of the United States of America (UNA-USA) proudly announces the release of the 2025–2026 American Youth Priorities Report, a comprehensive and youth-led publication highlighting the most pressing issues facing young people across the United States today.
Developed under the leadership of the 14th UNA-USA Youth Observer to the United Nations, Jarrett James Lash, the report reflects on insights gathered from hundreds of young people across diverse communities, representing a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Through national consultations, surveys and community engagement, the report elevates youth voices on critical global and domestic challenges.
The 2025–2026 report identifies key priority areas including climate action, economic opportunity, education access, global peace and security, and inclusive civic engagement. It also outlines actionable recommendations for policymakers, international institutions and civil society to better incorporate youth perspectives into decision-making processes.
In the report, the Youth Observer encourages young people today to activate their power and lean in: “The system needs young people more than it has in a very long time, and, from everything I have witnessed this year, our generation is much more ready than many assume.”
The American Youth Priorities Report serves as a critical advocacy tool, intended to inform U.S. policymakers, United Nations stakeholders, and partners committed to youth engagement. It will be presented at high-level forums, shared with decision-makers, and used to strengthen youth engagement in multilateral processes throughout the year.
UNA-USA encourages leaders at all levels to engage with the report’s findings and work collaboratively with young people to drive meaningful change.
The full report is available here: https://unausa.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2025-2026-UNA-USA-American-Youth-Priorities-Report.pdf
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About UNA-USA
The United Nations Association of the United States of America (UNA-USA) is a grassroots movement of more than 20,000 Americans dedicated to supporting the United Nations. We have more than 225 community and campus chapters across the country that provide programs, communications, and advocacy-oriented initiatives. With more than 70% of our members under the age of 26, we connect and foster collaboration between generations of advocates. For more information, visit www.unausa.org.
Contact:
Rachel “Rae” McCave
Senior Associate, Youth Engagement, UNA-USA
