Youth Leaders Drive Climate Action Discourse at COP-28
Dubai : – In a pivotal gathering at COP-28 in Dubai, the Commonwealth Pavilion orchestrated a vibrant focused group discussion titled “Green Champions: Young Advocates Across the Commonwealth” celebrating the Commonwealth’ marking the celebration of the Commonwealth’s Year of Youth 2023. This event underscored the crucial role of youth in shaping climate solutions, emphasizing the Commonwealth’s unwavering commitment to fostering a new generation of leaders dedicated to climate action.
Led by the Secretary General Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC, the discussion commenced with gratitude for the dynamic community of youth leaders in attendance. Secretary General Scotland highlighted the Commonwealth’s legacy of pride, unity, and unparalleled opportunities for its members. She positioned the Commonwealth as a global family nurturing leaders committed to addressing pressing challenges.
Recognizing the 1.8 billion strong youth demographic within the Commonwealth, Secretary General Scotland reiterated the organization’s dedication to supporting member states in confronting the climate crisis. The discussion served as a symbolic closure to the events at the Commonwealth Pavilion, emphasizing the central role of youth in climate action.
Secretary General Scotland drew attention to the loss and damage fund during her address, portraying it as a small drop in the ocean against the backdrop of climate change impacts. Despite the challenges, she conveyed a message of hope, characterizing the fund as a crucial initial step towards recovery. Stressing the pivotal role of young people in the ongoing fight against climate change, she highlighted various avenues available to the youth.
Commending the efforts of youth leaders, Mr. Qaiser Nawab, a renowned global climate youth leader from Pakistan, delivered a poignant address. Expressing gratitude for Secretary General Scotland’s presence despite health challenges, Mr. Nawab emphasized the Commonwealth as a family instilling pride and unity wherever its members go. Reflecting on his longstanding association with the Commonwealth since a young age, he credited the organization for providing invaluable opportunities for learning, skill enhancement, and global exposure.
Commonwealth Advisor for Youth Development, Mr. Sushil Ram, commended Mr. Qaiser Nawab’s pivotal role in organizing the discussion and expressed pride in the achievements of youth leaders. Mr. Ram underscored the significant impact of youth-driven initiatives in communities.
Over 50 Global Climate Fellow Youth Leaders from the Commonwealth and other nations actively participated in the discussion, sharing their projects, ideas, and experiences at COP-28. The specific focus was on the critical issue of the loss and damage fund, showcasing the depth of commitment and innovation within the youth community.
The event concluded with a group family photo capturing the smiles and hopes of the young leaders, symbolizing the Commonwealth’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of global leaders dedicated to climate action.