Living in such a diverse world we should not be surprised to discover our youth have opinions to express on problems other than climate change, the natural world and poverty. These issues range from bullying, to social exclusion, religious barriers, aids/HIV, gun culture, war, drugs and alcohol. Adults of today are well aware of the problems but it seems to be a case of ‘If it doesn’t affect me directly, why should I care?’  Tomorrow’s adults think differently and say we should be helping now.

“I think the biggest problem in the world today is how people are constantly at war with each other. Families have to move away from their homes and people in other countries don’t want them living in their country. It is so sad. World leaders must get together and sort out this problem or soon violence and terrorism will be spread to every single country in the world.” Tom Aged 19 years. Wales.

“It is about time we started acting on our thoughts. I have been working on a project that has been designed and organised by young people for young people. We try to promote the power of volunteering at local, national and international levels. We try to break down barriers regarding bullying, social exclusion and religious divides. The majority of people involved want to change the world, become better citizens and do something to make sure the planet lasts for many more millions of years.” Ashlee, Durham.

“My dad is in the army and has to fight in wars which I think is wrong. The leaders of all the countries should make peace with each other and not threaten to use nuclear bombs. If some one did that it would be silly as humans would probably all be wiped out, even the people who set it off. Why do adults behave like children and not listen to each other. We are supposed to learn from adults but I think they could learn a lot from us children.” Johnny 15 years, Cyprus.

“I think Bullying is a big problem for lots of children. If someone is popular, looks nice or is clever, there is always someone who is jealous and they bully that person. It’s not right. We should all learn to accept people for who they are and get on with each other. Bullies should be made to suffer their own medicine if they are told to stop and keep doing it. Let’s have a happy world.” Suzanne, 16 years, Birmingham.

“Aids is a terrible disease and is rife here in Africa. Many people die from it and children are left orphaned. Some children get HIV from their parents when they are born. I wish there was a cure but there isn’t. All we can do is educate people about safe sex and not sharing needles. I think it is bad that people discriminate against those with aids or HIV as no one can get it from just touching someone. What these people need is help not being ignored.” Neave, Cape Town.

“We are being told the NHS is in a bad way so why do doctors waste so much money on medicines. My dad was ill and the doctor gave him 28 new tablets to try to help him get better but they did not agree with him. He was given even more tablets that did not agree with him either. Think of all the money wasted when tablets had to be thrown away. What can be done? That’s easy. Give people only a few tablets to begin with and if they work the patient can get more. Think of the money that would save.” Jen, Dublin.

“Drugs and alcohol seem to be a big problem for many young people today. I don’t think adults can do much about that as young people don’t like to be told what to do and they don’t want parents harassing them. They want to be treated with respect and shown what to do. If youngsters don’t listen, it is their own fault and they have to live with the consequences.” Terry Black.

“I think a big problem today is where countries allow people to carry weapons. Every day we hear about some place where someone has been shot or stabbed. Many lives are lost for no reason whatsoever. I think maybe many violent films or online games have led to young people believing it is alright to do this. There should be a big clamp down on the sale of dangerous weapons and parents should educate their families from a young age that it is not right to attack other people.” Enzo, Paris.

With thoughts such as these expressed by teenagers across the globe, surely it is time to listen. Solutions must be found if they are to have any chance of living in a world without permanent fear. podIGT’s platform is open for teenagers to express their thoughts and feelings in the strictest confidence by emailing him at [email protected].  To find out what other issues are affecting our youth log on to https://www.podigt.co.uk