According to the UN, the theme of International Youth Day 2020 is "Youth Engagement for Global Action". It concentrates on how the commitment of the youth at the regional, political, and global levels is enhancing national and multilateral organizations. It also draws lessons on how their image and engagement in formal institutional politics can be improved significantly. 

After the United Nations General Assembly endorsed the suggestions made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth, the first International Youth Day was observed on 12 August 2000.

The theme for the year 2020 is 'Youth Engagement for Global Action'. The UN has put the spotlight on three areas - engagement at the society level, nationwide level, and global level.

As per the global health body, youth engagement means that the ideas, perspectives, skills, and strengths of the youth are integrated into the design and delivery of strategies, programs, policies, and funding mechanisms that affect their lives and the communities, countries, and world.

It is also important to note that the current hurdles that humankind is bearing can only be seized with global action. From the Covid-19 pandemic that has brought the world to a pause, to the Black Lives Matter Movement, The Beirut Explosion – the youth, globally, stands undefeated in expressing their ideologies and beliefs for better living and societal limitations.

In observance of the day, the United Nations had launched a social media campaign, #31DaysOfYouth, that is celebrating young people throughout August, leading up to and following International Youth Day. This day has motivated the youth all around the globe to always raise their voices against the unjust, corrupt, and other societal evil. Even in such desperate times, this day reminds the youth that their existence is revolutionary and strives to brings hope amid chaos. This year, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the UN is celebrating IYD with a podcast-style interview that will be received by the youth for the youth.