In the Service of Youth Since 1949!
Overview
The World Assembly of Youth (WAY) is the international coordinating body of national youth councils and national youth organisations. The full members of WAY are national youth councils. WAY has 140 member organisations from all continents.
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Founded in 1949, WAY has special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC), and works in close cooperation with several United Nations agencies including: UNAIDS, UNEP, ILO, UNESCO, UNFPA, UNICEF, UNCTAD, and WHO.
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WAY works for promotion of young people and youth organisations in programme areas such as: education, employment, environment, human rights, democracy, population, health, drugs, peace, gender equality, community development, and leadership training.
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Leadership
The leadership of the World Assembly of Youth (WAY) has evolved over the years but has always stayed true to its core mission: empowering young people to take an active role in shaping the world. Over past and present, WAY has been guided by youth leaders who are passionate about global cooperation and youth participation in policy. Today, the organization is led by Secretary-General Ediola Pashollari, who has played a key role in expanding WAY’s global presence and strengthening its impact. Learn more about the evolution of our leadership below.
Mission
The World Assembly of Youth (WAY) empowers young people to lead change on global issues such as climate justice, mental health, education, and equality. Guided by its charter and global network of youth organizations, WAY promotes youth participation in advocating for key issues affecting young people today. Our mission is to empower youth and foster collaboration around the 21 youth issues we believe are most urgent and impactful worldwide. Read more about our goals, actions, and charter below.