Youth Forum Tackles Global Challenges Head-On
The Economic and Social Council’s Youth Forum kicked off today at UN Headquarters, highlighting the pivotal role of young leaders in addressing pressing global issues. Running from April 15 to 17, the forum, themed “Youth at the Forefront: Leveraging Science and Social Inclusion for Sustainable Development,” brings together youth from around the world to discuss innovative solutions for sustainable development, digitalization, and gender equality. As conflicts, unemployment, and climate crises escalate, the forum underscores the urgency of empowering youth to shape a more inclusive future.
Youth-Led Solutions for a Resilient Future
During the panel discussion on “Youth-Led Solutions for a Resilient Future,” moderator Saru Duckworth, a Next Generation Fellow for Jobs and Economic Opportunities at the UN Foundation, emphasized the necessity of imagination in driving change. She noted that the overwhelming crises facing young people today often stifle their creative instincts. Duckworth highlighted the complex challenges youth encounter, including unprecedented unemployment rates and the pervasive impact of climate change.
Felipe Paullier, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, reinforced the importance of including young people in decision-making processes. He stated that their creativity is essential for shaping a sustainable future. Paullier called for a shift in societal perceptions that often view youth as inexperienced, urging for increased funding to empower young leaders. He stressed that collaboration with youth is crucial for transformative development.
Maria Teresa Parreira, Technology Focal Point at the Science Policy Interface Youth Platform, raised concerns about the inequities in climate technology development, which often excludes marginalized communities. She warned that without inclusive practices, the digital divide will only widen, leaving many young people unable to leverage technology effectively. Parreira pointed out that while many youth possess smartphones, they often lack the educational opportunities necessary to become active participants in technological advancements.
Sarah Neggazi, a representative from the Young World Federation of Public Health Associations, highlighted the importance of equitable access to digital health services. She expressed concern that the digital divide could hinder advancements in healthcare, particularly in the Global South. Neggazi’s insights underscored the need for systemic changes to ensure that all youth can benefit from technological innovations in health.
Health Challenges and Digital Solutions
The second panel, “Youth and Health — Overcoming Challenges and Staying Healthy,” was moderated by Kate Ndocko, a Public Health Medical Resident in France. Ndocko pointed out that vulnerable communities face unique challenges, including online harassment, and called for ethical oversight in digital health systems. She emphasized that digital health should be viewed as a public good rather than a luxury.
Marina el Khawand, Founder and President of Medonations, shared her experiences in transforming healthcare access in Lebanon following the 2020 Beirut explosion. She emphasized that the future of healthcare lies not only in traditional medical settings but also in the hands of youth harnessing digital platforms. El Khawand described digitalization as a form of resilience and a means to empower communities to take charge of their health.
Rehman Hassan, a member of the WHO Youth Council Steering Committee, recounted his experiences during a climate disaster, highlighting the urgent need for young people to have access to information and resources. He stressed that youth must be at the forefront of future leadership, ensuring that no one is left searching for survival strategies online.
Diene Keita, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director for Programme at UNFPA, addressed the alarming rise of technology-facilitated gender-based violence. She noted that this form of violence has severe emotional and psychological impacts, exacerbated by a lack of regulation in the tech industry. Keita called for active engagement with technology companies to create safer digital environments for young people.
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