The Global Youth Statement

COP26, the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference, is the make-or-break moment for the future of our planet.

Over the past year, the increasing frequency and severity of global climate-related disasters, combined with the IPCC’s warning, labelled as ‘code red for humanity’ by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, highlight the imperative for ambitious and immediate climate action.

COP26 represents a crucial opportunity to address the climate crisis for three key reasons: First, it provides the platform for member states to follow up on the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) established at COP21, which will determine if the world can limit global warming to 1.5˚C compared to preindustrial levels.

Second, it facilitates the operationalisation of the Paris Agreement by finalising the Paris Rulebook and consolidating the Katowice outcome at COP24.

Third, it takes place in the overarching context of the new normal since the Covid-19 pandemic, compelling the global community to radically rethink and transform our relationship with nature and with one another.

This pandemic has exposed how unequally the consequences of a global crisis are distributed, and we cannot afford the same thing to happen with the climate crisis. Throughout the negotiation process, COP26 must ensure that climate justice is at the core of decisions taken, and progress is made in a transparent and inclusive way.

To live up to that promise, it is crucial for COP26 to meaningfully consider and engage with the COY16 Global Youth Statement, which seeks to officially represent the voice of the youth and their policy demands.

Youths around the world are ready for change, will political leaders at COP26 deliver it?

The Youth Café works with young men and women around Africa as a trailblazer in advancing youth-led approaches toward achieving sustainable development, social equity, innovative solutions, community resilience and transformative change.

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