I am honored to share a message of profound respect and heartfelt congratulations to this year’s laureates of the United Nations Population Award.

The work we celebrate today — from advancing population science to protecting reproductive rights — is central to sustainable development. Because when every person can make informed decisions about their body and their future, we unlock opportunities, strengthen communities, and accelerate progress for all.

I thank Dr. Natalia Kanem for her dedication and leadership, as Secretary of the United Nations Population Award Committee and Executive Director of UNFPA.

I also salute the chair, Ambassador Sidi Mohamed Laghdaf, of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, along with the committee members, for selecting this year’s honorees.

In the individual category, we celebrate Ms. Varsha Deshpande of India.

In a village in Maharashtra, young girls once faced futures decided for them. Child marriage. No education. No choice.

But Varsha Deshpande stood up and said no. For over 30 years, she has been a force for change. Preventing hundreds of child marriages. Providing legal aid to over 10,000 women. And transforming the simple phrase “Lek Ladki Abhiyan,” “the cherished girl child,” into a movement of hope.

Halfway around the world in France, the International Union (IUSSP) for the Scientific Study of Population, has spent nearly a century bridging the gap between data and dignity.

Every four years, they gather global experts to take a deep look at some of our most pressing population challenges, including migration, aging societies, and climate displacement.

The IUSSP ensures lives are not only counted — but understood and supported.

On behalf of the Secretary-General and the United Nations, congratulations. We are all inspired by the work of today’s honorees and the future they help to shape. A future of dignity, equality, and opportunity, for every woman, every child, and every person, everywhere.

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On this World Youth Skills Day, we recognize that skills not just tools — they are engines of empowerment and opportunity. From traditional knowledge to creative arts to community leadership, a diverse range of skills enable young people to shape their futures and build more inclusive, peaceful and sustainable societies.

This year’s theme rightly highlights the growing importance of digital and AI skills. From basic digital literacy to advanced data science, these capabilities are ever more vital for young people to thrive in today’s world — and lead in tomorrow’s.

But opportunity must be universal. We must close the digital divide — so that every young person — regardless of gender, geography, or background — can reach their full potential.

Digital education must be human-centered, nurturing not only technical ability, but also creativity, critical thinking and compassion.

And as AI reshapes our world, young people must be seen not just as learners — but as co-creators of a fairer digital future.

Let’s do our part to equip every young person with the skills for the digital age.

(Excerpts of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ remarks at the 2025 United Nations Population Award Ceremony, delivered by Dr. Natalia Kanem, executive director of the United Nations Population Fund, on 11 July 2025, and his message on World Youth Skills Day on 15 July 2025.)