Introducing the United Nations Youth Advisory Group (UNYAG) 2026 Cohort

The United Nations Youth Advisory Group (UNYAG) 2026 Cohort brings together a diverse group of young leaders from across Bangladesh to contribute their perspectives, experiences, and ideas to the work of the United Nations and its development partners. Established as part of the youth consultation mechanism of the UN Technical Working Group on Adolescents and Youth, UNYAG serves as a platform for meaningful engagement between young people and the UN system.  

UNYAG provides a structured mechanism through which youth voices can inform discussions, priorities, and initiatives related to sustainable development. Members engage with the UN Technical Working Group, participate in consultations and activities, and help strengthen connections between the United Nations and youth communities across the country. Through this engagement, the group contributes to ensuring that the perspectives of young people are reflected in development processes and decision-making. 

Advancing the Five Strategic Priorities of the Cooperation Framework

The work of the UNYAG 2026 Cohort is aligned with the five strategic priorities of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for Bangladesh. These priorities guide the United Nations' support to national development efforts and provide the thematic foundation for youth engagement through the group. 

The five strategic priorities are:

1. Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Development
2. Equitable Human Development and Well-being
3. Sustainable, Healthy and Resilient Environment
4. Transformative, Participatory and Inclusive Governance
5. Gender Equality and Eliminating Gender-Based Violence

Through these thematic areas, UNYAG members contribute insights on issues affecting young people and support efforts to advance inclusive, sustainable, and equitable development outcomes. The group also plays a role in supporting the implementation and evaluation of the current Cooperation Framework and contributing perspectives that help shape future priorities.

The UNYAG 2026 Cohort represents a renewed commitment to meaningful youth engagement in sustainable development. By bringing together young leaders from diverse backgrounds and aligning their contributions with the five strategic priorities of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, the group serves as an important platform for dialogue, collaboration, and inclusive participation. Through their engagement, UNYAG members will help to ensure that the perspectives and aspirations of young people continue to inform the United Nations' efforts to support Bangladesh's development journey, contributing to a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for all.