New YMCA Global Research Highlights Urgent Needs of World’s Young People
In a public statement from the Secretary General of the World Alliance of YMCAs, the results from the YMCA One Million
Voices Youth Research show strong examples of young people’s most important needs going unmet.
The size and scale of this research means that we believe it is the largest ever research of young people aged 15-24 in
terms of global coverage, random selection, face to face interviews and total numbers. YMCAs in 55 countries have
contributed to this and nearly 18,000 young people. Surprisingly the news is consistent amongst young people around the
globe. The quality and robustness of the scientific methodology, overseen by Professor Fred Coalter, ensured random
sampling and credible techniques for greater accuracy and results. The respondents to this research were all in some way
affiliated with our movement.
The World YMCA has reviewed the research results and is deeply concerned about the powerful negative messages coming
from the world’s young people. It is clear that the global YMCA is not doing enough to help young people where they are
most in need.
YMCA New Zealand, a participant in this research, will officially launch the report on Friday 27 November as part of
their National Children Services Hui, in Auckland.
[see attached full public statement from the Secretary General, World YMCA, YMCA New Zealand Children Services Hui
Programme; link to register for Hui https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YMCANZCSEmpower2015]
ends