We are at the halfway point of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda. In 2015, when these Global Goals were set, it was agreed we should reach them in 2030. Meanwhile, the effects of the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution become ever more present in the daily lives of billions around the world. These effects are not felt evenly. Those left behind the most, vulnerable groups, women and girls, youth and people in developing countries are hit the hardest. For many people, climate change already hits hard at home.
What does the right to a clean and healthy environment mean for young people? It is often said that ‘youth have the future’, but what if you are experiencing the results of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution already? What if you want to change the future?
This interactive youth session connects the experiences and insights of Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme, with views of young people as a voice for future generations. What role does UNEP play when it comes to empowering youth, and what are the drives, hopes and challenges of its female leader?
Inger is joined by Mert Kumru, a young climate activist who advocates for climate justice. What are his experiences so far? Does he feel like his concerns and the concerns of young people are taken seriously by policy makers and institutions like the UN?
We aspire to use this session for a constructive dialogue, with, for and moderated by young people. Come join the conversation and register below, or join us online via the livestream!
ABOUT THE SPEAKERS
- Inger Andersen, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme. Inger provides unique insights into how UNEP engages youth and how she deploys her leadership to the benefit of people, planet, prosperity, peace and partnerships.
- Mert Kumru is an avid campaigner for World Youth for Climate Justice here in Europe. Now that climate justice is becoming a much more broadly accepted term, Mert offers us the opportunity to learn more about seeking justice for those affected by climate change.
The conversation will be led by moderator Wouter Ubbink (UN Youth Representative Biodiversity and Food). Together with the audience, Ida Simonsen (UN Youth Representative Biodiversity and Food) and Kiki Ritmeijer (UN Youth Representative Sustainable Development) will contribute to the discussion by voicing the perspective of future generations.
Event is co-organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
This will be a hybrid event, with both online and in-person participation possible. Venue: IDLO, Hofweg 9E, 2511AA The Hague.
LIVE STREAM
Join the event Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/haguetalks
10:30 GMT + 2 (The Hague)
