Environmental Governance in Time of COVID19 and Strengthening the Role of Youth
22 April 2020, 15.00 - 16.15 UTC
Contact: info@theyouthcafe.com
Mainstreaming voices of youth for protection of planet
The COVID- 19 crisis has resulted in unprecedented suffering for people across the world including the most vulnerable, among which, children. Apart from its effects on human health, the crisis has also struck us at a time where awareness about environmental issues was rising. Societal movements, especially youth groups, had mainstreamed climate and environment-related issues on the agenda of decision-makers across all levels of governance and partially the private sector.
While we await for the curve to flatten and these difficult times to pass, we will still have to steer through climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental degradation. These problems, much like the current health crisis, demand unprecedented global action and cooperation, acting on best available science and moving beyond “business as usual”. 2020 was set out to be the year of environment and nature, and the COVID19 crisis has impacted this momentum. Young people continue to be in the frontline as they deal with impacts on their health (including mental health) and morale. Youth organisations doing social work and environmental advocacy are also adapting, finding innovative modes of working, while continuing to make plans on how to continue pushing the environmental agenda.
What is the dialogue about?
Utilizing the mobilisation inspired by the 50th Earth Day, The Youth Cafe and its partners are convening a Virtual Youth Dialogue with UNEP ED Inger Andersen with intention of providing young people the opportunity to hear from Ms. Andersen and most importantly share their concerns, challenges and also suggestions on how UN Environment can further support youth movements and respond to their needs in these times. Overall, this youth dialogue will also serve as a learning opportunity for youth groups across the world, and comes at a time where motivation is much needed.
Date & Timing
The dialogue will be hosted on 22 April 2020, from 15.00 UTC - 16.15 UTC
Target Audience
The target audience for this dialogue are youth groups from different parts of the world, including but not limited to youth advocates, organisations working on-ground, youth activists, informal youth groups, etc.
Participate
Do you want to participate in this youth dialogue and make your voices heard directly with the leadership of UNEP? Please register now! If you would like to post some questions in advance, do that on SLIDO HERE!