Opening remarks for the 80 years of the United Nations community youth event in FSM

Kamorale!

Today in Pohnpei, we gather to celebrate 80 years of the United Nations. For eight decades, countries and communities have worked together toward peace, dignity, equality, and justice for all. The UN was created at a moment when the world understood that cooperation was the only path to a safer and fairer future. That vision continues to guide us today.

Here in the Federated States of Micronesia, this anniversary holds special meaning. The UN has stood with the people of these islands through independence, development, and regional cooperation. Today, our partnership is stronger than ever and centered on those who shape the future of this nation: children and young people.

I would like to thank our partners who made this event possible: the Pohnpei Department of Education, Pohnpei State Health and Social Affairs, and the Government of FSM. Your continued collaboration and commitment to young people, to education, to wellness, and to inclusion is the foundation of progress. Kalahngan for your trust in the United Nations family.

This UN@80 celebration focuses on youth, sports, health, gender, and inclusion. These themes are not only important for this community, they are at the heart of the UN’s work in FSM. Across the country and the Micronesian region, the UN system supports programmes that promote:

• Quality education, including digital skills
• Health and nutrition, including adolescent wellbeing
• Gender equality and ending violence against women and girls
• Climate resilience, empowering young people to protect their islands
• Inclusion of persons with disabilities in all areas of life
• Youth leadership and participation in decision-making

These are real programmes that many of you experience in your schools, clinics and communities. I would like to invite you to visit the UN Community booths we have set up during this event, so you are able to learn directly from our UN agencies in FSM about these impactful programmes changing the lives of youths.

Today’s event, centered on sports and learning, shows how powerful youth engagement can be. Sport teaches discipline, teamwork, respect, and fairness. It brings together boys and girls, young people with and without disabilities, and students from all backgrounds. It reminds us that inclusion is not only a message; it is a practice.

As we mark 80 years of the United Nations, we also honor our partnership with FSM. Together, we are working to ensure that every young person, no matter their gender, ability or background, has the chance to learn, to lead and to thrive.

This anniversary is not only about reflecting on the past. It is a commitment to the future. A future where young people shape climate action. A future where healthy and inclusive communities grow stronger. A future where all young people have equal opportunities. A future where persons with disabilities are recognized as leaders. A future where no island and no young person is left behind.

Across the Micronesian region, I see young people already building this future with creativity, determination and pride in your culture. You inspire us and remind us why the United Nations exists.

If the last 80 years have taught us anything, global progress depends on the strength and vision of young people.

As we look to the next decades of the UN, one truth is clear:
You are the future of FSM.

You are the future of Micronesia.
You are the future of our world.
And you are the future of the United Nations.

Kalahngan and thank you.