The COP28 is currently underway in Dubai from November 30 to December 12, 2023. This UN meeting, focused on climate change, represents a critical moment to redirect and strengthen efforts against the climate emergency, particularly in the context of record global temperatures and extreme weather events impacting populations around the world. The conference brings together government leaders, business executives, NGOs, and civil society with the aim of finding effective solutions to this urgent issue.

During this session, progress made under the guidelines of the Paris Agreement, a pivotal climate treaty signed in 2015, will be evaluated, and a strategy will be outlined to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect lives and livelihoods. According to scientific evidence, it is vital to decrease coal, oil, and gas production as soon as possible and to triple the capacity for renewable energy (such as wind, solar, hydroelectric, and geothermal) by 2030. Additionally, a significant increase in funding for adaptation and investment in climate resilience is necessary.

Currently, the world is home to approximately 1.8 billion young people between the ages of 10 and 24, making it the largest youth generation in history. These individuals are increasingly vocal and aware of the challenges posed by the climate crisis. Their active participation in COP28 has been notable, not only through their presence at events but also through initiatives like a global youth declaration, urging greater youth inclusion in decision-making processes and climate policy formulation.

At the conference, young climate advocates have emphatically stated that they will not remain passive while climate change threatens their future. They have called for political leaders to prioritize the needs of the nearly 2 billion children and young people worldwide, emphasizing that their voices and ideas are crucial for the preservation of the planet.

During a youth dialogue event, Amelia Turk from YOUNGO (a global network of child and youth activists) highlighted the importance of the global youth declaration, delivered to the COP28 delegates. This policy document, created with over 750,000 contributions from more than 150 countries, reflects the vision and proposals of the youth. Mashkur Isa, also from YOUNGO, noted the high youth participation in the event, as evidenced when the majority of hands in the packed auditorium were raised in response to a call for those under 35 years of age to identify themselves.

At this juncture, it is essential to recognize the need for young people to be broadly educated not only in climate change topics but also in all areas that will shape their future. This includes education in technology, AI, economics, public policy, and sustainable development, among others. Educating young people in these areas is crucial to ensure they are equipped to lead and make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving world, where climate change is just one of many complexities they will face. COP28 and similar events should serve as platforms to foster this comprehensive education and prepare young people for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

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