Maryam Al Attiyah Highlights Key Challenges and Opportunities for Youth Development at OIC Human Rights Commission

English , Qatar - قطر , Snippets , / Wednesday, December 17th, 2025

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Jeddah, December 2025 – In her address at the 26th Ordinary Session of the OIC Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission, H.E. Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Committee and member of the Commission, emphasized that youth development faces significant challenges. These include the gap between educational outcomes and labor market needs, limited economic opportunities, rising youth unemployment, weak political and civic participation, and increasing social and psychological pressures.
Despite these challenges, Al Attiyah highlighted that youth possess immense potential. Their cognitive abilities and innovative energy make them a driving force behind digital transformation, the green economy, and entrepreneurship.
The address took place during a thematic discussion titled “Youth Development in OIC Member States: Challenges and Opportunities from a Human Rights Perspective” in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Al Attiyah called for the adoption of national strategies that empower youth, grounded in human rights principles. These strategies should prioritize equality, reject extremism, and promote quality education, vocational training, and innovation programs designed to prepare youth for future economies.
Additionally, Al Attiyah stressed the importance of expanding opportunities for youth participation in policymaking and state institutions through formal and permanent channels. She affirmed that investing in youth is essential for ensuring the stability and development of states and is a shared responsibility among governments, national human rights institutions, civil society, and the private sector.
With youth constituting the majority of the population in OIC member states, Al Attiyah acknowledged the unique demographic opportunity this presents, while also recognizing the profound challenges it entails. Despite ongoing efforts, millions of young people still struggle with access to quality education, decent employment, and meaningful participation in public life. She also noted the rising spread of extremism among youth, which limits their potential and capacities.