Leave it to our children

An Appeal To Involve The Youth In Climate Policy

Introduction

Some of the most influential politicians could be our grandfathers and -mothers. They stand there confidently and preach that they know what is best for society and future generations. After all, they have decades of experience.[1] Including in the area of climate change and the best climate policy.

Yet, the question arises as to why, despite this wealth of experience, there is still no functional system in place that can bring about substantial improvements in the fight against climate change. Why are climate targets constantly being pushed back? Legal frameworks, such as the Paris Agreement, serve as the backbone for international climate policy, setting out binding commitments for countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. For example articles 4 and 6 of the Paris Agreement offer key examples of how the agreement facilitates global climate action. Article 4 requires countries to create and regularly update their nationally determined contributions (NDCs), setting ambitious goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Meanwhile, Article 6 provides frameworks for international cooperation, including carbon markets, where countries can trade carbon credits to meet their NDCs. This cooperation aims to enhance the overall effectiveness and efficiency of global efforts to limit climate change.

These frameworks, such as the Paris agreement often require national governments to implement specific measures and report on their progress, holding them accountable to international standards. [2] These targets, which should have been achieved by 2020, are still far from being realized. In response to the failure to achieve these targets, they were simply pushed back. Currently, the year 2030 is being discussed as the new target, effectively pushing the timeline back by a decade.[3] The likelihood of achieving in the next 6 years what should have taken 5 years to achieve by 2020 alone is fairly low.

These politicians all around the globe, whether they are from offices specifically designed for climate action, members of parliament or presidents of entire countries, experienced as they may be, are unlikely to bear the consequences of their decisions today. Shifting the goals further and further into the future only means that it is pulled out of the scope of their responsibility.

It is the younger generations who will feel the consequences of today’s political decisions. They will be faced with the challenge of rebuilding a potentially shattered system and achieving the long-awaited success. There is the sobering possibility that by that time, there may be little left to save. Why shouldn’t we give these young people the opportunity to participate actively now? Why shouldn’t their voices and opinions be taken seriously? Young people have clear views and express them passionately and loudly.

Thus, the central question arises whether the opportunities and influence should be given to the young people who so desperately seek them. Isn’t it time to entrust them with the responsibility and the chance to shape the future in which they will live? They bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and an unyielding determination to find sustainable and forward-looking solutions. Their active involvement could be the key to the much-needed changes that our world urgently requires.

Involving the Youth in Climate Policy

The question whether the youth should be more involved in climate policy and global decision-making processes is particularly relevant and significant. On the global stage, there is a noticeable rise in the number of young individuals who are stepping into the political arena with a clear and determined mission: to combat the escalating threat of climate change and to mitigate its increasingly devastating consequences.

The following sections will provide several examples of young people who, even as children, have taken it upon themselves to address these significant issues head-on. They are not swayed or deterred by the adult politicians.

Vanessa Nakate – Africa

Vanessa Nakate is a prominent Ugandan climate activist who has made significant strides in advocating for climate justice. Growing up in Uganda, she witnessed firsthand the severe impacts of climate change, and the devastating consequences on communities. This personal experience fueled her passion for environmental activism.

In 2019, Nakate founded the Rise Up Movement, aiming to amplify the voices of African climate activists and address the unique challenges faced by communities in the Global South.[4]

Nakate’s activism aligns closely with movements like Fridays for Future. She has participated in numerous demonstrations and climate strikes, inspired by Greta Thunberg’s efforts. Her determination to bring about change has seen her speak at international platforms, emphasizing the urgency of climate action. At the UN Youth Climate Summit, Nakate faced discrimination but used the opportunity to raise awareness about the climate crisis in Africa. She highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on African nations, despite their minimal contribution to global emissions.[5] She refers to the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR). Acknowledging that while all countries share the responsibility to address global environmental issues like climate change, their obligations differ based on their economic development and historical contributions to environmental degradation. Developed nations, having historically contributed more to environmental problems, are expected to lead in combating climate change and support developing nations through financial and technological assistance.[6]

Nakate is also an accomplished author, using her writing to advocate for environmental justice and sustainable development. Her notable quote, “In the end, you know, we cannot eat coal, we cannot drink oil,” powerfully underscores the existential threat posed by climate change and the need for sustainable practices.[7]

Vanessa Nakate’s journey illustrates the critical role young people can play in combating climate change. Her work serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that youth activism can drive significant environmental and social change. By advocating for climate justice and sustainable solutions, Nakate and other young activists are crucial in shaping a more equitable and resilient future.

Francisco Vera – South America

The next example involves Francisco Vera, a young environmental advocate whose journey began remarkably early. At the tender age of six, Vera was already passionately engaged in climate activism, championing environmental causes within his school community in Columbia. His unwavering commitment to raising awareness about climate change led him to author a children’s book titled ´Qué es el cambio climático´(What is climate change) aiming to educate young minds about the pressing issue of climate change in an accessible and engaging manner.[8]

Veros´ tireless efforts did not go unnoticed. At the age of just 13, he was honored with the prestigious role of Youth Advocate for UNICEF. In this capacity, Francisco works closely with UNICEF, leveraging their platform to amplify his message and drive meaningful change. His appointment to this role is a testament to his impactful work and the potential he has to inspire others.[9]

Speaking about his mission and the importance of collective action, Vero eloquently expressed: We must not forget that no matter where we are, how old we are, or where we come from: We can all work for life and act. His words resonate deeply, reminding us that everyone, regardless of age or background, has the power and responsibility to contribute to the fight against climate change.[10]

His compelling words deeply moved the audience at the recent Paris Peace Forum, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. The following appeal was particularly impressive for the participants: ´Children can be agents of change on climate action, so give us a voice.´^[11]

Elanyanne Wanjiku – Africa

The final example is Elanyanne Wanjiku from Nairobi. At the incredibly young age of 13, she assumed a pivotal role in organizing the children’s summit as part of the larger Africa Climate Summit. This event was a significant platform where she and her peers convened for three intensive days to discuss and formulate strategies on what actions should be undertaken to combat climate change. Demonstrating remarkable leadership and eloquence, she delivered the opening speech at the summit, setting the tone for the discussions that followed.[12]

Wanjiku’s tireless dedication and proactive stance on climate issues did not go unnoticed. Her commitment to the cause and her ability to inspire others earned her international recognition. She was subsequently invited to Paris, where she had the distinguished honor of advising President Emmanuel Macron on his financial package designed to address both poverty and climate change. This invitation was a testament to her influence and the impact of her advocacy. [13]

In an open letter that resonated deeply with many, she passionately articulated her views on the role of youth in the climate movement: “Let us not forget that we, the youth, are not just the future; we are the present. We stand at a crossroads of life or death, and the choices we make today will shape the world that the generations after us will inherit. Let us choose the path of justice, equality, and sustainability. Let us reshape our world into one where every child, regardless of their nationality or circumstance, can live in a world that is just, fair, and sustainable.”[14]

Her words and actions serve as a powerful reminder that young people are not only capable of contributing to critical global discussions but are also essential in driving the change needed for a sustainable future. Wanjiku’s story underscores the importance of including youthful perspectives in policymaking and highlights the profound impact they can have on shaping a better world for all.

Conclusion

It must be unequivocally emphasized that this is certainly not a call to endorse child labor. Rather, it presents a realistic perspective on the current situation. In today’s world, children and young people are taking their destinies into their own hands. It is no wonder they feel misunderstood and unheard. The intent here is not to burden them entirely with the responsibility but to acknowledge their voices and take them seriously.

The circumstances have placed these young individuals in such a difficult position that they feel compelled to act. This should not merely be seen as a warning shot but as a pressing call to fundamentally change our approach. As Greta Thunberg has famously stated, she should not have to be in this situation at all. However, realistically speaking, if no one steps up, nothing will change. Therefore, they should be given the opportunity, and everyone who has something to contribute and the will to do so should be enabled.

For so long, efforts have been made to tackle these issues, yet success has remained elusive. It is time to adopt a different strategy. Let us allow the youth to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions, rather than continually holding them back. After all what should happen? They screw it up and don’t achieve their goal? Oh no, as if that never happened before…

[1] Christine Ro, ´Should we be worried about older politicians? ´ British Broadcast Corporation (28 July 2024) < https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20230913-should-we-be-worried-about-older-politicians > accessed 30 July 2024.

[2] United Nations, ´The Paris Agreement`United Nations Climate Change < https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-paris-agreement> accessed 30 July 2024.

[3] Europäischer Rat, ´ Pariser Klimaschutzübereinkommen´< https://www.consilium.europa.eu/de/policies/climate-change/paris-agreement/#:~:text=Gem%C3%A4%C3%9F%20dem%20%C3%9Cbereinkommen%20hat%20die,1990%20um%20mindestens%2055%20%25%20zu> accessed 02 August 2024.

[4] United Nations System Staff College, ´Vanessa Nakate´ (unsc.org) < https://www.unssc.org/about-unssc/speakers-and-collaborators/vanessa-nakate> accessed 02 August 2024.

[5] Steve Curwood and Vanessa Nakate, ´Ugandan Climate activist Vanessa Nakate: ´We want climate action and our voices will not be silenced´ The World < https://theworld.org/stories/2021/11/02/vanessa-nakate> accessed 02 August 2024.

[6] German Council of Foreign Relations, ´Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR)´ < https://dgap.org/en/research/glossary/climate-foreign-policy/common-differentiated-responsibilities-cbdr> accessed 12 August 2024.

[7] UN, ´Voice of Change, Vanessa Nakate: Climate Change is about the people´< https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/vanessa-nakate-climate-change-is-about-people> accessed 02 August 2024.

[8] EU, ´Who rules the world: Francisco Vera´s World: The youngest Climate Activist and Educator`Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations in New York (12 February 2024) < https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/un-new-york/who-rules-world-francisco-vera%E2%80%99s-world-youngest-climate-activist-and-educator_en> accessed 30 July 2024.

[9] Unicef, ´UNICEF names Francisco Vera, 13 year-old activist, as the first youth advocate for environmental and climate action for Latin America and the Caribbean´Unicef (5 June 2023) < https://www.unicef.org/lac/en/press-releases/unicef-names-francisco-vera-13-year-old-activist-first-youth-advocate-environmental-and-climate-action-for-lac> accessed 30 July 2024.

[10] Ibid.

[11] Bernado Lazo, ´Reflections from the Paris Peca Forum´Namene < https://namenesolar.com/collaborating-for-peace-namene-at-the-paris-peace-forum/> accessed 30 July 2024.

[12] Francis Mureithi, ´ Ellyanne Wanjiku, the13-year-old environmental champion with big dreams´Nation (27 August 2023) < https://nation.africa/kenya/health/ellyanne-wanjiku-13-year-old-environmental-champion–4348790> accessed 30 July 2024.

[13] Antje Diekhans, ´Kenias jüngste Klimabotschafterin´tagesschau (4 September 2023) < https://www.tagesschau.de/ausland/ellyanne-wanjiku-100.html#:~:text=Ellyanne%20Wanjiku%20hat%20einen%20Kinder,Ihr%20Vorbild%3A%20Eine%20Friedensnobelpreistr%C3%A4gerin.&text=Auch%20wenn%20das%20Thema%20ernst%20ist%2C%20kann%20zwischendurch%20getanzt%20werden.> accessed 30 July 2024.

[14] Jena,´Children´s Declaration to the new global financing pact summit´Jesuits (23 Juna 2023) < https://jenaafrica.org/childrens-declarationappeal-for-an-equitable-financing-pact/> accessed 30 July 2024.