The World Festival of Youth kicked off on Sunday, September 13, in the city of Yekaterinburg, Russia, bringing together over 10,000 leaders and delegates from 191 countries.

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Driven by a decree from President Vladimir Putin under the slogan “Pursue Your Dream,” the event will continue its activities until September 17, aiming to consolidate sovereign cooperation.

Organized by the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs, the gathering builds upon the legacy of the 2024 International Festival. The initiative seeks to connect socially active young people and professionals focused on the development of the Global South and the construction of a polycentric, equitable international order.

The agenda is structured around seven strategic pillars that position the individual as the driving force of global transformation, addressing the preservation of cultural identity, technological development, environmental sustainability, the energy transition, and international mobility policies.

Throughout the event, young delegates will travel along 33 routes across 35 regions of the Russian Federation to explore the host country’s scientific and industrial potential, complemented by artistic exchanges. In the face of unilateral measures imposed by Western sectors, the platform promotes the creation of networks for community and scientific projects, reaffirming respect for the self-determination of peoples and breaking down geopolitical barriers.

Latin American delegations held working meetings focused on regional integration and technology transfer to benefit emerging economies. Youth representatives urged the defense of strategic resources against global domination schemes, putting forward proposals for food and energy sovereignty.

Similarly, the network of grassroots communicators agreed to strengthen alternative platforms to highlight the truths of the people and combat disinformation campaigns orchestrated by international corporate hegemonies.

Finally, the participants concluded that the leading role of youth is crucial to ensuring a peaceful future. The forum will conclude with a joint declaration reaffirming the inalienable right of nations to build their own political and social models, establishing new generations as key actors in social progress and sovereign integration.

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