In foreign policy and development circles, there is an increasing focus on youth. Evidence points to the benefits of the so-called demographic dividend, or economic returns that can be unlocked when countries invest in the health and empowerment of their young people. But what does that really mean, and what is the role of the U.S. government in advancing youth empowerment globally? What are the barriers that young people face in accessing their health and rights? And how can U.S. foreign policy and assistance help to dismantle those barriers and promote a more peaceful and prosperous future?