Day 9: COP28-” Youth Revolution: Empowering Global Youth for Climate Leadership and Transformative Change”

As COP28 enters its ninth day(December 8), the momentum of the conference is palpable, with a particular focus on empowering the global youth for climate leadership and driving transformative change. The past eight days have witnessed groundbreaking initiatives, discussions, and commitments, placing young people at the forefront of climate action. From the inaugural Youth Stocktake to the Youth, Children, Skills, and Education Day in Dubai, COP28 has unfolded as a platform dedicated to inclusivity and the active involvement of the younger generation. As we delve into day nine, anticipation is high for further strides in climate diplomacy, meaningful youth engagement, and the pursuit of a sustainable future.

Inaugural Youth Stocktake at COP28: A Global Gathering for Climate Action

COP28’s flagship youth day marked the debut of the Youth Stocktake, uniting thousands of young individuals worldwide in a collective effort for climate action.

COP28 President’s Vision: A Turnaround COP for Inclusive Climate Diplomacy

Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, the President of COP28, emphasized the conference’s commitment to building a global legacy and a better future for youth and children. This COP is dedicated to ensuring full inclusivity at the core of the climate process.

Youth, Children, Skills, and Education Day in Dubai: Elevating Youth in Climate Diplomacy

On December 8, COP28 delivered on its promise to prioritize young people by hosting the Youth, Children, Skills, and Education Day in Dubai. The day concluded with the groundbreaking Youth Climate Delegates Program’s graduation ceremony.

 Addressing Climate Risks for One Billion Children: Youth Inclusion in Policymaking

While around one billion children face extreme climate risks, many young individuals worldwide are actively leading climate action. Despite their efforts, meaningful youth inclusion in climate policymaking remains limited. COP28’s Youth, Children, Skills, and Education Day aimed to address this gap by gathering young leaders to formulate key youth policy proposals and the 2023 Global Youth Statement.

 Dubai Youth Climate Dialogue and Youth Stocktake Launch: Youth-Led Initiatives

The Youth, Children, Skills, and Education Day included the launch of the Dubai Youth Climate Dialogue and Youth Stocktake. Attended by Parties, young leaders, and key stakeholders, this event marked the conclusion of the youth-led dialogue forum mandated by COP and focused on central youth policy proposals for COP28 and the 2023 Global Youth Statement.

Unveiling the Youth Stocktake: A Comprehensive Analysis Led by YOUNGO

Led by YOUNGO, the Youth Stocktake represents the first extensive research analysis of youth inclusion in UNFCCC and youth policy outcomes. Supported by  Shamma Al Mazrui, the Youth Climate Champion, it offers a comprehensive overview of youth involvement, engagement, best practices, and strategies for enhancing youth participation in decision-making.

Reflecting on Progress: Shamma Al Mazrui’s Insights

Shamma Al Mazrui, the Youth Climate Champion, reflected on the day, emphasizing the unprecedented initiatives fostering children and youth inclusion at COP28. She highlighted the significant impact of 110 dedicated youth delegates, aiming to catalyze transformative change for future COPs.

COP28 Presidency’s Call for Global Climate Education: UNESCO Greening Education Partnership

Throughout 2023, the COP28 Presidency advocated for robust measures to enhance global climate education. On Youth, Children, Skills, and Education Day, 38 countries committed to signing the UNESCO Greening Education Partnership Declaration, pledging to incorporate climate education into their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs).