UN 
Felipe Paullier, a paediatrician by profession and a passionate youth advocate, has made history as the youngest senior official ever appointed within the United Nations. In 2023, he took the helm of the UN Youth Office, a pivotal role dedicated to ensuring that the perspectives and concerns of young people worldwide are heard and integrated into global policymaking. This appointment marks a significant milestone in the UN’s ongoing commitment to youth engagement and empowerment.
Before joining the UN, Paullier served as the Director of Uruguay’s Government Youth Institute. There, he spearheaded multiple collaborative initiatives with United Nations agencies, focusing on youth development, education, and participation. His experience at the national level provided him with a deep understanding of the challenges young people face, from access to quality education to employment opportunities and civic engagement.
Under Paullier’s leadership, the UN Youth Office aims to strengthen youth inclusion across all Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), recognizing young people as essential agents of change. His appointment arrives at a critical moment when global youth are confronting unprecedented challenges, including climate change, economic uncertainty, and social inequality. Paullier’s approach emphasizes listening to youth voices and facilitating their meaningful involvement in decision-making processes.
Experts highlight that youth engagement is vital for achieving the 2030 Agenda, as young people represent over half of the world’s population under 30. Paullier’s unique blend of medical expertise and public service experience equips him to address health and well-being issues alongside broader social and economic concerns. His tenure is expected to invigorate international efforts to create inclusive policies that empower young generations to contribute fully to sustainable development.
As the world strives to meet the SDGs, Felipe Paullier’s role exemplifies a growing recognition within the UN that youth leadership is essential for transformative progress. His story serves as an inspiring reminder that investing in young people is not only a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for building a resilient and equitable future.
