Jeddah: HE Chairperson of the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) and Member of the Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah emphasized that one of the most pressing challenges facing youth development is the widening gap between educational outcomes and labor market needs. She also pointed to limited economic opportunities, high unemployment rates, low levels of political and civic participation, and increasing social and psychological pressures.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al Attiyah was speaking during a panel discussion titled "Youth Development in the OIC Countries: Challenges and Opportunities from a Human Rights Perspective," held on the sidelines of the 26th regular session of the OIC's Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. She stated that despite the challenges facing youth, there are vast opportunities to build upon. Young people possess unprecedented knowledge and innovative energy, and they are a driving force behind digital transformation, the green economy, and entrepreneurship.
She stressed the need for national strategies to empower youth, grounded in human rights principles that ensure equality, non-discrimination, and the rejection of extremism. These strategies should also promote quality education, vocational training, and innovation programs that prepare youth for future economies.
Al Attiyah highlighted the importance of expanding youth participation in policymaking and integrating them into state institutions through formal and sustainable mechanisms. She further emphasized that investing in youth is a guarantee for national stability and development.
She described it as a shared responsibility among governments, national human rights institutions, civil society, and the private sector. She stressed that youth make up the majority of the population in OIC member states, which presents a unique demographic opportunity. At the same time, it poses profound challenges that require a comprehensive response.
Despite ongoing efforts, she noted, millions of young people still face barriers to accessing quality education, securing decent employment, and participating in public life. Additionally, the spread of extremist ideologies continues to undermine their potential and limit their contributions.