On April 8, 2025, the United Nations (UN) and European Union (EU) officially launched the Youth Advisory Group (YAG) in Jamaica, a platform for 15 dynamic young leaders aged 16 to 29 to influence policies and programmes that impact their lives and futures. This initiative underscores the UN and EU's shared commitment to youth engagement and sustainable development. 

Built on three foundational pillars: consultation and advice, capacity building, and networking, YAG members will provide input on UN and EU initiatives, advocate for youth interests, and support consultations under UN and EU cooperation frameworks and Vision 2030 Jamaica National Development Plan. They will also engage in outreach initiatives to strengthen information dissemination on youth issues

EU Ambassador Dr. Erja Askola emphasized that young people are not merely beneficiaries but active contributors to global solutions. She noted the YAG’s alignment with international frameworks like the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its focus on inclusive, rights-based policy-making.

Members are receiving training in critical areas such as human rights, protection against exploitation, advocacy, and leadership. These sessions are facilitated by UN and EU platforms to equip them with skills necessary for impactful participation in development processes.

EU Jamaica

Dr Jahnoy St Jacques, YAG General Secretary, described the group as a symbol of shared leadership and intergenerational trust. “The voice of youth has never been more critical. The UN-EU Youth Advisory Group represents more than just a dialogue. It represents shared leadership, inter-generational trust and collective action on the issues that define our future.”

UN Resident Coordinator in Jamaica, Dennis Zulu, highlighted the overwhelming response of applicants as proof of the need for structured spaces for youth involvement. He stated that initiatives like YAG reaffirm the principle that young people must be at the centre of sustainable development efforts.

Jamaican officials, including Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Alando Terrelonge, praised the initiative as a vital investment in national development and youth empowerment.