6th Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting - Strategy Papers

The theme of the 6 CYMM was “Youth Empowerment for the Eradication of Poverty, Crime and Violence and HIV/AIDS”, it was convened in Nassau, the Commonwealth of The Bahamas from 24 - 26 May, 2006. This paper provides a broad overview of some of the major issues and challenges confronting young people, especially the millions who are Commonwealth citizens. It will then outline the case for youth development to be accorded even greater focus and significance within the broader national, regional and global development context. Finally, the paper will propose strategies, mechanisms and policies which characterise the paradigm shift from the social-welfarist, youth-fixing and quick, problem-fixing approach to a transformational, sustainable developmental approach to youth development in the Commonwealth.