The Country Consultation in India was co-led and co-facilitated by a YECAP Fellow and a Young Environmental Human Rights Defenders Protection Coordinator
Led by the Youth Empowerment in Climate Action Platform (YECAP) and YECAP Fellows, the Country Consultations are part of the key activities in the lead-up to the Asia Regional Dialogue on Climate Justice for Children, Youth and Future Generations on 28-30 May 2022.
On 27 April 2022, Dr. Michael V L Chhandama, Youth for Sustainability India Alliance Coordinator, Movers Envoy from Movers Programme and YECAP Fellow co-led and co-facilitated a virtual Country Consultation on Climate and Youth with Saumya Surbhi, Young Environmental Human Rights Defenders Protection Coordinator from UNDP Bangkok Regional Hub.
Two of the active youth participants self-nominated to share their voices on climate change and youth empowerment in climate action on behalf of their peers at the Asia Regional Dialogue.
"I am interested in being the representative and want to bring a positive impact to the world," said one participant.
The consultation began by discussing the perspectives and understanding of youth towards climate justice then invited the youth to brainstorm potential strategies as part of the solutions. Some dialogues were connected to Stockholm+50 Youth Task Force and the urgent need for actions to achieve a healthy planet and prosperity of all, including follow-up activities and recovering from COVID-19. Others reflected on the support for indigenous and female youth advocates and ongoing obstacles faced by them.
When asked to brainstorm ways to safeguard the rights of people and nature, including among others, indigenous peoples and local communities, environmental defenders, women, youth, future generations, the participants gave responses that included being kind, being informed about rights, laws and duties, and also sharing what they learn through social media and offline mediums. Where possible, they also spoke on highlighting the voices of those marginalized. Last but not least, 'no corruption' was another highlighted point.
Learn more about the Asia Regional Dialogue on Climate Justice for
Children, Youth and Future Generations: https://bangkok.ohchr.org/adcj2022/