The European Union, too, has given its backing to the promotion of International Youth Day, established by the United Nations, that is celebrated annually on 12 August. The EU institutions are publicizing the events accompanying the Day; so too is the Council of Europe (headquarters in Strasbourg, over 40 member countries). The theme of International Youth Day 2004 is: “Youth in an inter-generational society”. “By choosing this theme explains a statement put out by the Commission the UN wants to emphasise the importance of solidarity between the generations at all levels: in families, in communities and in nations. This Day is an opportunity to promote the participation of the young and tackle the issues that concern them”. Among the various events being held in various parts of the world, the Commission draws attention to the meeting in Manila, in the Philippines (Fifth International Youth Day Conference), the Australian International Festival and the event being promoted in Sri Lanka by the United Nations Friendship Organisation.
