The 19th Conference of Youth (COY19), held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 7-9, 2024, brought together over 400 youth leaders from 169 countries in the lead-up to COP29. This impactful event, organized by YOUNGO and NAMYO, empowered young advocates to shape global climate policy through the Global Youth Statement (GYS), a collaborative declaration informed by contributions from over 700,000 youth globally. The GYS, enriched by inputs from YOTA-supported Local Conferences of Youth (LCOYs) in Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia, became a vital advocacy tool calling for equitable climate finance, green transitions, and social resilience.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres in his opening address. Credit: YOUNGO
Day 1: Laying a Global Youth Foundation
The opening day focused on setting a vision for youth-led climate solutions. Inspiring messages, including a video address from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, set the tone for the event, recognizing the importance of youth leadership. Sessions introduced the GYS and explored strategies for climate justice, equity, and local community engagement. Delegates and LCOY organizers exchanged ideas on mobilizing grassroots movements and scaling youth-led initiatives. The “Path Forward for LCOYs” session was a highlight, where local organizers reflected on strategies to deepen youth collaboration for sustainable futures.
COY19 Delegates. Credit: YOUNGO
Day 2: Tackling Climate Challenges Through Collaboration
Day 2 explored critical themes like climate migration and green skills development. Interactive workshops led by global organizations, including IOM and UNICEF, emphasized solutions such as workforce training and heritage preservation. Panels explored pathways to integrate cultural knowledge into climate strategies and prepare youth for eco-friendly careers. The day concluded with a showcase of LCOY achievements, where youth-led local initiatives, much like YOTA’s grassroots efforts were spotlighted as models for driving global impact. Delegates also experienced virtual reality tools that presented the lived experiences of vulnerable communities worldwide, fostering empathy and commitment.
Panel Discussion. Credit: YOUNGO
Day 3: Advocacy Skills and Cultural Unity
The final day equipped delegates with advocacy skills for engaging in high-level climate discussions. Workshops on storytelling, digital activism, and navigating international frameworks empowered youth to amplify their voices effectively. The GYS was formally handed to COP29 leaders in a ceremony celebrating youth commitment to climate solutions. The evening culminated in a Cultural Night, highlighting Azerbaijan’s rich heritage through music, dance, and cuisine, reminding participants of the shared humanity behind the climate movement.
Handover of the Global Youth Statement Credit: YOUNGO
COY19 not only amplified youth voices but also showcased the power of collaboration in tackling climate challenges. YOTA’s contributions through LCOYs ensured that grassroots African perspectives resonated within the global movement, affirming the role of young leaders in building a sustainable, equitable future.
