Commonwealth Youth Programme

“Young people are vital to the processes of development, democracy and participation. We as citizens of the Commonwealth, have the responsibility, as well as the right, to participate in making change." (Citizen You Commonwealth Youth Summit 2002)

For the Commonwealth Youth Programme (CYP), young people are key development partners. While they represent the future of the Commonwealth, their skills, energy and enthusiasm are needed now, not later. We at CYP believe that working closely with young people ensures that today's development challenges are met head-on and that a better future is created for all Commonwealth citizens, young and old.

Young people shape every aspect of our work. The issues that we target and the programmes that we develop are all based on their views, experiences and urgent needs.

Young people throughout the Commonwealth have an enormous contribution to make in their countries. CYP works with young people to create the opportunity for them to become active citizens who understand that they have rights as well as responsibilities. This would enable them to fully participate in development projects that create opportunities for themselves and their communities.

CYP Diploma
The CYP Diploma in Youth Development Work is delivered in 45 countries by 27 Universities and training agencies across the Commonwealth

Youth Caucus
Youth Caucus leads a network of young people which spreads across all 53 countries of the Commonwealth

Project Hope
The 'Project Hope' Northern Uganda Youth Development Centre (NUYDC) is a Government of Uganda Project located in Gulu district supported by the Commonwealth Secretariat

Youth Ambassadors for Positive Living
The Young Ambassadors of Positive Living Programme (YAPL) was initiated as a response to the challenges posed by the spread of HIV and AIDS among young people