16/04/2026
At the ECOSOC Youth Forum 2026, UN Trade and Development Youth joined the session on SDG 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure which brought together young people, Member States, the UN system, and other partners to discuss how youth can drive progress on industry, innovation and infrastructure in an era of rapid digital and green transformation.
Here are some key takeaways:
🔹 Youth entrepreneurship is central to advancing SDG 9, as young people are at the heart of innovation and digital transformation. However, many, particularly those from disadvantaged communities, lack the enabling conditions necessary for success, such as access to capital and networks.
🔹 The digital divide is real and unequal. Connectivity, AI literacy and skills training must reach young people, especially those in developing countries.
🔹 Meaningful youth inclusion means more than consultation; it means integrating young people into the decision-making processes that shape innovation, infrastructure, and the future of digital economies.
In the words of our two UNCTAD Youth speakers:
💬 "[The challenges that young people face] are a capability and a credibility barrier because they lack a track record. They lack access to capital. They lack a network by which they can engage. And it is even harder when these people come from disadvantaged communities." Angela Y. Zhong, Future Climate Leader, Aspen Institute
💬 "If we are not part of shaping these changes, we risk being left behind. Not for lack of potential, but for lack of voice." - Roberta Versiani, Founder, UNCTAD Youth Action Hub Belo Horizonte
