Youth comprise approximately a third of the combined population of ASEAN, constituting the largest ever cohort of ASEAN youth. The youth population of the region is projected to peak at over 220 million by 2038. 

As the region’s future leaders, change makers, in novators and influencers of the region, ASEAN’s youth is both the region’s asset and hope of tomorrow that needs to be provided with meaningful opportunities to influence policies that have a direct impact on their lives.

Youth development in the region is supported through youth exchanges, youth leadership programmes, and youth volunteerism opportunities as well as skills training and social entrepreneurship programmes. ASEAN youth is encouraged to engage with ASEAN leaders and senior officials, to make their voices heard on issues that matter to them through various available platforms. These efforts are further complemented with research on youth development to support the development of policies and programmes that respond to their needs specifically in the areas of education; health and well-Being; employment and opportunities; participation and engagement; and ASEAN awareness, values and identity.