In my first few days at COP29, I have gained critical insight into global perspectives on furthering sustainable initiatives through discussions and panels in the Green Zone. A unique aspect of this area of the COP is it is open to non-accredited delegates, meaning it is more accessible to the public. It has been exciting to see how the Green Zone values young perspectives in climate discussions, as exemplified through a youth-focused venue. However, there is still evidently room for improvement, as policy makers seemingly fail to treat youths in high regard.
Coming to COP, I was admittedly skeptical that youth perspectives would be respected. I did not anticipate that younger generations would be included in discussions, much less given an entire venue. I was proven wrong upon arrival to the Extreme Hangout, which is an inclusive space in the Green Zone that provides youths with a dedicated place to learn about and discuss climate issues.
I attended several youth-led presentations at the Extreme Hangout which provided a refreshing perspective on the climate crisis. One notable lecture was “Transforming Climate Narratives for Healthy Environments” by Enkhuun Byambadorj, who is a youth activist and the director of operations and co-founder of Breathe Mongolia- Clean Air Coalition. Byambadorj provided insight into the air pollution crisis in her Mongolian hometown and the direct health consequences of coal dependence, which have been met with inaction. It was incredible to hear the story of a young individual working to educate others on climate injustice and create tangible change in policy making. Byambadorj’s story demonstrates the importance of amplifying the voices of youth activists, as this representation is crucial to inspire future climate leaders.
Despite the representation provided by the Extreme Hangout presentations, youth voices still lack sufficient regard in policy making conversations. This was evident in another presentation I attended, “ActNowFilm: Youth Climate Leaders as Agents of Change,” which highlighted the experiences of two young climate leaders, Dorcas Mugo and Dawda Cham. A significant topic of conversation in this panel was how youth activists are treated in the realm of policy making. It was evident that Mugo and Cham’s perspectives are not sufficiently considered due to their age, despite their viewpoints being critical to policy decisions. It is especially important to consider how young perspectives are disregarded during climate change conversations while at COP, as youth delegates must be treated with increased consideration to help find climate solutions.
Significant strides have seemingly been made to bring youth perspectives into the climate change space. However, it is essential for their viewpoints to be taken seriously to make progress in addressing the climate crisis at hand.
Jackie Flaherty is majoring in Marketing and Urban & Community Studies in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.