Co-submitters are any delegates who have either participated in the construction of this resolution (e.g. merging, contributing clauses) or alternatively have signed that they would like to see this resolution debated in committee.

TQO: Youth Empowerment in Climate Activism and Decision-Making
Committee: Special Conference on Youth
Main Submitter: Belgium

Co-submitters:Brazil, Chile, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, Greece, Guyana, Iceland, Iraq, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Peru, Ukraine, USA

THE SPECIAL CONFERENCE ON YOUTH

Acknowledges that climate change is one of the greatest global challenges, disproportionately affecting younger generations who will bear the long-term consequences of environmental degradation,

Deeply concerned by the lack of youth representation in key decision-making bodies, despite young people being at the forefront of climate activism and innovation,

Recalling the UN declaration on Children, Youth and Climate justice,

 

1. Calls for the creation of a new UN sub-body known as the United Nations Youth Climate Action and Policy Body (UNYCAPB), which will be funded by the World bank and work in conjunction with governments, other UN sub-bodies, NGOs, and international organizations to amplify youth voices in climate governance by:

1. 1. conducting research on youth engagement in climate action, assessing the impact of existing policies on young people, and compiling annual reports on youth-led climate initiatives

   2. establishing youth advisory councils at national and international levels to provide policy recommendations to governments and global organizations

   3. ensuring that all UN climate conferences, including COP (Conference of Parties), have a minimum youth representation of 30% in official delegations and discussions;

   4. increasingfundingandpromotion of youthenvironmentalNGOssuchincluding but not limitedto; 

 

2. Requests an annual global youth climate summit in Greece that is to be attended by heads of state or their representatives, policy-makers, and young climate leaders to discuss pressing environmental issues, including:

1. strategies for increasing youth involvement in climate decision-making at local, national, and international levels

2. advancements in climate science, sustainable technology, and green economic opportunities for young professionals

3. funding opportunities for youth-led climate initiatives, with transparent mechanisms to ensure accessibility for marginalized and underrepresented communities

4. any additional emerging environmental crises that require urgent attention, with the possibility of creating regional youth climate task forces for rapid response;

 

3. Asks for the creation of a global climate education and mass media campaign to inform, empower, and mobilise young people about environmental sustainability, including:

1. the integration of climate change and sustainability studies into national school curricula at all levels of education

2. the development of interactive learning tools, mobile applications, and digital platforms to engage youth in climate science and activism

3. partnerships with media organizations and influential public figures to highlight youth-led environmental initiatives through documentaries, interviews, and awareness campaigns

4. developing interactive and multilingual content to ensure inclusivity, cultural relevance, and accessibility for diverse audiences worldwide;

 

4. Recommends the implementation of sustainable employment policies that prioritize youth involvement in green economies, including:

1. the creation of job opportunities in renewable energy, conservation, and circular economies, ensuring fair wages and career development pathways for young professionals

2. government subsidies and tax incentives for businesses that employ and train young people in environmentally sustainable sectors

3. support for youth-led start-ups and social enterprises working on climate solutions, including legal assistance, market access, and financial incentives;

 

5. Further invites the implementation of skill-building programs to prepare young people for leadership roles in climate action, with a focus on:

1. training programs on policy advocacy, negotiation, and public speaking for young climate activists

2. internships and apprenticeships in green industries, providing hands-on experience in sustainable business and environmental conservation;

 

6. Endorses legal protections to safeguard young environmental activists by implementing policies that guarantee freedom of speech and peaceful protest for young climate activists:

1. establishing international legal support mechanisms for youth activists facing criminalization or repression due to their environmental advocacy

2. encouraging whistleblower protection laws for young individuals exposing environmental crimes committed by corporations and governments;

 

7.  Encourages intergenerational dialogue and cooperation between youth and senior policymakers to ensure inclusive climate governance by:

1. encouraging mentorship programs where experienced climate policy makers guide young leaders on policy-making and advocacy strategies

2. establishing youth advisory roles within national environmental agencies to ensure that policies reflect the priorities and concerns of younger generations

3. organizing forum where youth and government officials collaborate on enviromental policy development and implementation;

8. Supports the establishment of youth-led carbon reduction initiatives to contribute to global climate goals by: