Barbara Monticelli’s Post

🌍 At COP28, youth activists faced significant barriers to meaningful involvement in negotiations. Despite the highest youth participation ever, issues like lack of accessibility, inadequate training, and intergenerational gaps persist. It's time to move beyond symbolic gestures and ensure genuine youth involvement in climate decision-making. 🌍 Read more about their struggles and insights here in this article by Barbara Monticelli: https://lnkd.in/dus8zWTX #ClimateChange #YouthInvolvement #COP28 #RethinkingClimate

🗣️ Loss & Damage has been among the most discussed topics of this last COP, starting with its fund operationalisation during the first day of the conference. 🤔 So, how much did youth know about it? Was their awareness and knowledge technical and well-supported, or was it more general and on the surface? And finally, what role do media play in this matter? 🔎 Find out the answers to these questions in this new article by Barbara Monticelli 👇🏻 #LossAndDamage #youth #media #ClimateChange #RethinkingClimate #Cop28

🤯 Talking with many #youth at #COP28, several of them mentioned the difficulty of feeling prepared for the conference. It’s not easy to stay ready and follow what happens at COP, even if you are present there (and I can confirm this from personal experience). The topics discussed are vast and diverse, the conference area is enormous, and time flies faster than it seems (as always!). 🫠 Despite the high effort put into seeking information, understanding who will be present, and knowing which debates will be held, a sense of confusion and unpreparedness is still present, especially for first-time attendees. Could this be due to a gap in the information system and pre-COP communication? 🌎 For instance, #LossAndDamage is among the hot topics of recent COPs, as evidenced by the creation of its fund at COP27 and its operationalisation during the first day of COP28. So, how many youth were aware of it, and what did they know about it? 📰 What emerged is that the majority of the youth interviewed have probably been influenced by #media coverage in forming their opinions, particularly those with a more general and superficial awareness of the topic. So this brings to another question: how can media better #support youth on #technicaltopics like this, making them more #accessible and #engaging? The objective would be to create #curiosity and develop #criticalthinking, going beyond summarising brief information. 🔍 Find out more about these points in my new article for Rethinking Climate and let me know your thoughts!

Youth Voices Resonate Loud and Clear at COP29 | #GreenerFuture COP29 became a historic milestone, not just for advancing climate action but for showcasing the incredible power of youth advocacy. From the plenary sessions to grassroots pavilions, young leaders made their voices heard, shaping the narrative and driving bold commitments toward a sustainable future. Youth at the Forefront of Climate Action Youth delegates from around the globe brought energy, passion, and innovative ideas to the negotiation table. Their impact was undeniable, influencing key discussions on climate justice, renewable energy transitions, and climate finance. Through their tireless advocacy, they highlighted the urgency of addressing the climate crisis and holding leaders accountable for decisive action. Key moments included: Policy Advocacy: Youth delegates successfully pushed for more ambitious targets to phase out fossil fuels, resulting in unprecedented commitments by major stakeholders. Innovative Solutions: From showcasing cutting-edge renewable technologies to proposing new carbon offset mechanisms, young innovators set the tone for what’s possible. Climate Justice Demands: Youth representatives ensured that the voices of marginalized communities, including indigenous populations and small-island states, were amplified and addressed. Platforms for Engagement Throughout the conference, youth forums, workshops, and side events created spaces for young people to lead and collaborate. Their contributions were celebrated, from hosting panels with policymakers to organizing marches that drew global attention to their demands. For the first time in COP history, a Youth Climate Action Declaration was formally adopted, marking a turning point in the inclusion of youth in international decision-making. This landmark achievement is a testament to their resilience and determination. The Message Is Clear: Youth Are Not the Future—They Are the Now The message from COP29 is resounding: young people are not just advocates for change—they are architects of it. They’ve shown the world that their insights, energy, and vision are indispensable in building a greener, fairer planet. A Call to Continue the Momentum As we reflect on COP29, let us carry forward the lessons learned and commitments made. To all the youth who stood up and spoke out, your voices echoed far and wide, inspiring millions. The fight for climate justice continues, and your leadership will remain at the heart of the journey. 🌍 Let’s continue to empower youth and build the sustainable world they demand and deserve. #YouthVoices #COP29 #ClimateAction #GreenerFuture #SustainabilityLeadership

Here is what I learned from and about youth leaders at #COP29 today: Youth are at the forefront of climate action, driving change with a passion that demands our attention and, more importantly, our response.   The climate crisis cannot be solved with words alone—it requires bold, decisive action that harnesses the strength, creativity and determination of young people around the world. At COP29, young negotiators and advocates amplified their voices, pushing for a future where climate policies are not just about addressing the present but also about protecting generations yet to come. They are not merely participants; they are leaders and visionaries today. Their presence at the negotiating table is transforming what it means to build a resilient and inclusive future. These youth advocates made it clear that their engagement is not just a hopeful addition to the discussion but a critical component of achieving equitable climate solutions. For UNICEF, COP29 represents a pivotal moment to turn advocacy into impact. We are not here to simply listen; we are here to work alongside young leaders to break down barriers to participation and empower them with the tools they need to influence policies. From providing meaningful opportunities to participate in the rooms where decisions are made, to training future negotiators and building lasting partnerships, our goal is to ensure youth voices are heard in every decision shaping our climate future. I also learned that many of the young negotiators of the Youth Negotiators Academy Climate Youth Negotiators Programme (CYNP) are now lead negotiators for different UNFCCC workstreams and some already Heads of Delegations. A true inspiration for young people striving to lead change everywhere. Thank you to Youth Negotiators Academy CYNP, Veena, Marie-Claire, Nathalie, Marwah, Beth, Michelle, Enkhuun and Lucky. #COP29 #Climate #COP29Azerbaijan #YouthNegotiator #CYNP #UNFCCC #ForEveryChild

🌍We are proud to announce the launch of our Youth Position Statement for COP29! This vital document is based on the united vision and demands of young climate advocates from Europe. As the climate crisis grows more urgent, our voices are essential in driving change. 🌱🍃🎐☀️ Together with Saikat Das, I am thrilled to lead this effort, calling on world leaders, policymakers, and global stakeholders to prioritize climate justice, intergenerational equity, equality, &  bold, science-based action. Our statement emphasizes several key areas: ⭐️ Climate targets, urgency for decarbonisation & well-tailored climate finance strategy. ⭐️ Meaningful youth participation in decision-making⭐️ Investment in climate education. ⭐️ A strong commitment to environmental and social justice. Youth hold the power to ignite real change, and at COP29, we are determined to ensure our voices are heard loud and clear!A heartfelt thank you to all the incredible contributors who helped shape this powerful message: Fabiola Pereira, Paul Jenkinson, Tiago da Gama Gonçalves, Ludger Peters, Janna Beijer, Denis Hardi, Samrudhi Inamdar MIET and Igor Ostrowski. Join us in this movement and help amplify our message for a fairer, greener future! On our LinkedIn page European Young Engineers (EYE) you can find latest news and updates from COP29! #COP29 #YouthForClimate #ClimateJustice #IntergenerationalEquity #YouthLeadership

As COP29 discussions in Baku continue, the voices of young climate advocates have taken center stage. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed solidarity with youth activists, acknowledging their frustration over the lack of political urgency. “You have every right to be angry. I am angry too”, he emphasized, calling for systemic reform and equitable solutions to address the climate crisis. This pivotal youth dialogue, organized by YOUNGO and the Youth Advisory Group, demonstrated the importance of including diverse perspectives in the fight for climate justice. From green finance and urban resilience to the integration of indigenous knowledge, young leaders are not just participants - they are shaping solutions. ESGs & Climate Consulting echos this message: empowering youth is vital to achieving meaningful, sustainable change. Let’s amplify their voices and collaborate across generations for a just and resilient future. Find the full article: https://lnkd.in/gz7rAVFA #COP29 #YouthForClimate #GreenTransition #Sustainability

Incredibly proud of our dynamic team for the work they've done to bring this together. European Young Engineers (EYE) is an old organisation, but we are fresh in the climate space - only receiving UNFCCC observer status 2 years ago. Nevertheless, we are delighted to share our very first COP position statement We advocates for policies that address climate change through robust scientific evidence, youth inclusion in decision-making, and fostering skills and knowledge sharing. Representing 35 engineering institutions from 22 countries - and thousands of young engineers across europe - EYE provides valuable input to key climate discussions, aiming to advance sustainable development and equitable climate solutions. It is imperative that young voices are engaged in climate negotiations, highlighting their role in shaping innovative and forward-thinking solutions. EYE calls for expanding knowledge sharing and collaboration opportunities to accelerate the transition towards a sustainable future: By prioritising education, collaboration, and innovation, young engineers and emerging leaders will be encouraged to become pivotal agents in advancing a just and inclusive transition to a low-carbon economy. #eye #policy #cop29

🌍 Youth Empowerment at COP29 Azerbaijan: Driving the Future of Climate Action The Vital Role of Youth in Climate Action The role of young people in shaping a sustainable future cannot be overstated. At COP29, the focus on Children and Youth has been a driving force, highlighting the power of education and engagement in tackling climate challenges. Today’s youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the change-makers of today. By equipping young people with the knowledge and tools they need, we are empowering them to take meaningful action in their communities and beyond. From grassroots movements to international forums, youth voices are leading the charge for a greener, more equitable planet. Youth as Partners in Climate Negotiations One of the key outcomes of COP29 Azerbaijan has been the recognition of youth as essential partners in climate negotiations. The conversations held in Baku underscore the importance of giving young people a seat at the table, ensuring their insights, innovation, and energy contribute to shaping policies that will impact generations to come. Moving Beyond Education: Building Partnerships Youth empowerment in climate action isn’t just about education—it's about partnership, inclusivity, and creating pathways for active participation. Young people need opportunities to collaborate with decision-makers and stakeholders, ensuring that their voices are integrated into the global climate agenda. Let’s continue to support and uplift the voices of young leaders who are working tirelessly to safeguard our planet. How do you think we can better engage youth in climate strategies? Share your thoughts and let’s make a difference together. 🌱✨ #COP29 #YouthEmpowerment #ClimateAction #FutureLeaders #SustainableFuture #YouthInAction

Just 3 days to COP29! 🌍 What does COP mean for us, and what can we expect from this year's critical discussions? COP stands for Conference of the Parties. It’s a unique opportunity for governments, organizations, activists, and especially youth, to come together to confront the climate crisis. At ChildFund, we believe that young voices are essential in shaping a sustainable future, which is why we are committed to empowering them to be part of the solution. What changes do you hope to see from COP29? 🌍✊ #OurPlanetOurFuture #YouthVoices #ChildFund #ChildfundSl #COP29 #COP29Azerbaijan #ClimateAction #Baku