Dubai, December 9, 2023 – Youth leaders representing the Commonwealth’s 56 countries have made a passionate plea for concrete action from world leaders at COP28, the UN Climate Change Conference. Frustrated with the gap between promises and progress, they urge a shift from “rhetoric” to tangible solutions that safeguard the planet for future generations.
Their call forms the core of a new report, “Commonwealth Youth Policy Recommendations on Climate Change,” launched on December 8th during an intergenerational dialogue hosted by the Commonwealth Youth Climate Change Network (CYCN) and the Commonwealth Secretariat.
The report highlights the urgent concerns of young people across the Commonwealth and outlines specific actions governments can take to meaningfully engage them in climate action. It emphasizes that “the hope of tackling climate change lies with youth.”
Speaking at the dialogue, youth leaders expressed disappointment with the lack of implementation following their comprehensive recommendations presented at COP26 in Glasgow. They urged negotiators at COP28 to prioritize creating an environment where young people can share real-world experiences, showcase their innovative solutions, and actively influence policy decisions.
Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, acknowledged the critical role young people play, stating, “Young people are among those facing the harshest consequences of the climate crisis. Despite this, they embody the spirit of hope, using their ingenuity and passion to deliver tangible climate solutions.”
She emphasized the importance of engaging and listening to young people, saying, “It is our duty to engage and listen to young people on policies and practices shaping climate mitigation and adaptation efforts across all levels.”
Chevaughn Brown, Membership Lead of the CYCN, highlighted the report’s significance in empowering young people to shape their future. He stated, “A common future can be achieved if we treat the future as the present. With decisive planning and making the right choices, climate change can be just stories of what could have been a distant past.”
The dialogue provided a platform for young people to engage with leaders like the Secretary-General on climate risks, support structures for youth-led initiatives, and innovation in ocean conservation. It also marked the launch of the Commonwealth Ocean Youth Working Group, a collaboration between the Commonwealth Blue Charter and the CYCN aimed at amplifying youth-driven solutions to ocean challenges.
Ibiso Ikiroma-Owiye, Chairperson of the Working Group, stressed the fundamental right of young people to participate in climate action. She stated, “Young people deserve a seat at the table and should not have to struggle to finance the implementation of innovative projects for our shared and sustainable future.”
The dialogue aligns with a series of events throughout 2023/4, designated as the Year of Youth by the Commonwealth. The “Commonwealth Youth Policy Recommendations on Climate Change” report, produced by the CYCN with support from the Commonwealth Secretariat, serves as a vital resource for policymakers and stakeholders committed to empowering young people and building a more sustainable future.