International Year of Youth - Fact Sheet - Juvenile Justice

Youth, defined by the United Nations as between 15 and 24 years of age, are rising to the forefront of the international agenda. On the one hand, they are formidable assets in innovation and creativity, able to promote equality and justice in society. They often participate in civic life through volunteerism, community service and participation in youth organizations. In some countries, they serve as members of youth committees in local governments helping to shape and influence youth-related policy. On the other hand, however, they are often involved in outbursts of violence and crime, both as perpetrators and victims. Partially this is also due to the fact that in many countries young people represent a large proportion of the population, and accumulate risk factors.