The global landscape has dramatically evolved since the 1994 ICPD's Programme of Action, where 179 governments committed to prioritizing individual rights in sustainable development. Initially, only 0.4 percent of the global population had Internet access. Today, nearly 70 percent are digitally connected, revolutionizing access to information. Technological progress has transformed lives, improving sexual and reproductive health services, aiding in gender-based violence responses, and ensuring marginalized groups receive vital information. 

The digital age is a double-edged sword. It offers unprecedented opportunities, yet simultaneously creates a digital divide, leaving millions unable to access or safely navigate new technologies. The proliferation of misinformation, disinformation, cybercrime, and digital violence undermines trust and exacerbates existing inequalities, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities especially young women.

Young people are the driving force behind digital progress. With 75 percent of individuals aged 15 to 24 utilizing the internet, they represent a generation of digital natives. Their power, potential, and influence on technology make them pivotal figures in digital advancements. UNFPA leads efforts in reshaping the digital landscape in the Arab region by empowering youth and cultivating safe, inclusive online environments. Through active engagement with young individuals, UNFPA instills digital literacy and encourages responsible online conduct, nurturing a cohort of tech-savvy and socially aware leaders.

To celebrate International Youth Day, we are spotlighting young innovators from across the Arab region and highlighting their remarkable endeavors in creating a safer and more inclusive digital space for all. These inspiring individuals are spearheading initiatives that promote online safety, foster inclusivity, and champion digital empowerment. Their dedication and creativity not only enrich the digital landscape but also pave the way for a more secure and welcoming online environment that benefits everyone. 

Nour Bridges Social and Cultural Barriers to Women's Health in Lebanon with NAWAT App 

Passionate about women's wellness, 33-year-old Nour founded the groundbreaking NAWAT Health web platform and mobile app to address social and cultural barriers related to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) in Lebanon. "When I faced personal challenges in accessing adequate SRH information and a safe space to discuss these topics, I knew I had to do something," Nour shared. 

NAWAT Health provides a secure digital space where women can access a comprehensive knowledge base in Arabic, including online courses, interactive blogs, and video content. It also integrates direct online access to vetted professionals, offering confidential advice and guidance on various SRHR topics through telehealth services. 

Salma Empowers Egyptian Women's Safety with Hiryo App

Driven by a vision to transform women's safety, 26-year-old Salma Medhat co-founded the Hiryo mobile app, an AI-powered platform that provides real-time support during emergencies. "Growing up, I witnessed the challenges many women in my community faced in terms of personal safety and gender-based violence," Salma explained. "I knew technology could be a powerful tool to empower and protect vulnerable populations." 

Hiryo allows women to transform their loved ones into a private security team, offering AI-based danger detection features that provide robust support during crises. Salma's remarkable achievements were recognized when she received the African Startup of the Year award at the Global Startup Awards. 

Maria Empowers Underprivileged Girls in Jordan Through Digital Inclusivity 

At just 22 years old, Maria was motivated to bridge the digital divide for girls like herself who grew up in underserved communities in Jordan. Eager to empower her peers, Maria engaged in d the "Me and My Mobile" digital literacy course at the Zain Innovation Campus (ZINC). 

Growing up in Sweileh, Amman, Maria faced limited access to digital tools in school. "The computer lessons were very theoretical, and I often had to borrow devices to complete my assignments," she recalled. Determined to change this, she enrolled in the transformative "Me and My Mobile" programme. Over 8 weeks, Maria and 18 other adolescent girls learned crucial digital skills, from creating secure email accounts to leveraging social media and mobile apps for online income generation and reporting gender-based violence. "I even helped my mother promote her online business using what I learned”.

Young people often play a crucial role during times of crisis and disaster. With their energy, creativity, and familiarity with digital tools, youth can be invaluable assets in response and recovery efforts. By leveraging social media, creating apps, and other online platforms, young people can quickly amplify the needs of their communities, coordinate relief efforts, and connect those in need with available resources and support. Moreover, youth-led digital initiatives can help document the experiences of affected populations, giving them a voice and raising awareness of the challenges they face. In times of upheaval, the tech-savvy and adaptable nature of the younger generation can be a powerful force for positive change and community resilience.

Palestinian Youth Amplify Voices and Deliver Aid Through Digital Platforms in Gaza 

In the face of escalating humanitarian crises in Gaza, Palestinian youth, supported by UNFPA, are leveraging digital platforms to amplify their voices and provide critical aid to their communities. 

Atta, a member of the Youth Advisory Panel (YAP), explains, "As YAP, our mission is to ensure that Palestinian youth voices are heard and taken into consideration in all matters affecting them." When the violence intensified, YAP members utilized their digital skills to plan and implement vital humanitarian support initiatives, distributing food and non-food items to over 5,000 displaced families. 

Atta participates in a protest abroad, calling for a ceasefire in Israel's war on Gaza. © Youth Advisory Panel (YAP)

Atta and his peers also invested in digital advocacy and awareness-raising efforts, using online platforms to amplify the stories and needs of their communities. "It was challenging to move and deliver relief assistance under fire, with no assurance of our own safety," Atta recalled. "But we were determined to make a difference."

Young Innovators in Morocco Break Down Barriers with Inclusive SHAGA App 

Young people in Morocco are taking the lead in fostering more inclusive digital spaces. Designed in collaboration with the Collectif Autisme Maroc (CAM) and with the support of Capgemini, a global strategic partner for transformation and digitalization, the UNFPA-backed SHAGA App is breaking down barriers and providing crucial sexual health information for young people with autism. Underscoring UNFPA's commitment to accessibility and diversity, the SHAGA App was co-led by young people with autism. This innovative platform delivers essential health information, including prevention against violence and abuse, and particularly supports young women and girls with autism, offering predictions for menstruation, ovulation, and fertility days, along with reminders and symptom tracking. By empowering youth to shape this groundbreaking digital tool, UNFPA is ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital transition.

Tunisian Youth Lead the Charge Against Cyberbullying with UNFPA's Netopoly Game

Young people in Tunisia are taking the lead in addressing online harassment and fostering a safer digital environment. UNFPA's Netopoly game is sparking conversations and raising awareness about cyberbullying, particularly targeting vulnerable groups like girls and young women. Netopoly was co-created with youth and adolescents aged 14 to 22, incorporating their insights on gender-based violence and online harassment. This interactive and educational game effectively raises awareness about the dangers of cyberbullying and other forms of online harassment, promoting responsible online behavior and fostering a culture of respect. Available in Arabic, French, and English, Netopoly ensures broad accessibility and empowers youth to lead the charge in combating digital violence.

Young women entrepreneurs are driving social change in Somalia

In Somalia, young women entrepreneurs are driving social change through impactful initiatives through the UNFPA EmpowerHer Innovation Challenge. By equipping these aspiring change-makers with the tools to address pressing issues like FGM and child marriage, UNFPA is not only fostering entrepreneurship but also catalyzing transformative social movements. The innovation initiative, which saw participation from 13 girl innovators, focused on addressing critical social and gender issues, including FGM and child marriage in Somalia under the UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme on the Elimination of FGM. 

The EmpowerHer Innovation Challenge provided skills and knowledge to young Somali women entrepreneurs to drive social change and created a safe space for networking and mutual support. Three winners received seed funding grants and pitched their innovative businesses during the Mogadishu Tech Summit on June 30, 2024, demonstrating the power of youth-led digital solutions in addressing pressing societal challenges.

As the world grapples with the complexities of a digital age, UNFPA's unwavering commitment to empowering youth voices and fostering safe, inclusive digital spaces stands as a beacon of hope and progress. Through collaborative efforts and innovative initiatives, UNFPA and young leaders worldwide are collectively shaping a digital landscape that is not only technologically advanced but also socially responsible, equitable, and inclusive.