ICLEI's vision on youth engagement in global climate action

Subnational Governments and Next Generations Address the Climate Emergency Together

Today, facing the global climate emergency which is closely interlinked with the global acts crisis, it is clear that accelerating action across the board is the need of the hour. With several ongoing global crises, ICLEI - Local Government for Sustainability (ICLEI) takes action by supporting local and regional governments in 125 countries around the globe to accelerate localizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to foster resilient, net-zero emission, nature-based, circular, equitable and inclusive development.

One thing is for certain - Leaving the Earth in a dire state, now or in the future, is not an option.

Therefore, a strong legacy is necessary for today’s children and the future generations to come. At present, more than 1.3 billion young people aged 15 to 24 live on this planet, and of this number, almost 85% live in the global South. By 2030, 60% of this urban population will be younger than 18 years of age.

ICLEI acknowledges the diversity of young people and their needs across the different corners of the world. They recognize that this is one of the most vulnerable groups facing the impact of climate change and that they require a voice, a partner and immediate action to safe-guard themselves and their future.

Thus, we reflect on three key questions:

• Where are we now?
• Where do we want to go?
• How do we get there?

These questions guide ICLEI’s approach in working with the youth in different cities, towns and regions around the globe. That is why on 10 November they published a vision on youth engagement in global climate action. Discover the full document here.