Empowering Future Generations: How Nepal’s Climate Change Agenda Puts Children and Youth First

Kathmandu, April 27: Over 100 children and youth from across Nepal gathered to voice their concerns about climate change. This meeting, part of the Children and Youth Dialogue, was held in the capital as a lead-up to the international ‘Sagarmatha Dialogue’ organized by the government.

Among these passionate voices was 20-year-old Nischal Bhatta. He stressed that climate change isn’t a distant threat; it’s a pressing issue right now. He called for an environment that supports climate justice and resilience.

The event featured two important sessions. The first focused on how climate change affects essential services, including education, health, and water access. The second session explored the unique challenges of mountain ecology and the future of humanity, aligning with the main themes of the upcoming Sagarmatha Dialogue from May 16 to 18.

Participants shared personal experiences related to climate change, highlighting the efforts they are making within their communities. A significant outcome of the dialogue was the declaration crafted by the youth. This document outlines their demands, commitments, and proposed actions for creating a climate-resilient Nepal. It will be submitted to the secretariat ahead of the Sagarmatha Dialogue.

The Bigger Picture

According to a recent UN report, climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing mankind today. The report states that nearly 1 billion children live in areas at high risk of flooding, food shortages, and health threats due to climate-related issues. This underscores the importance of engaging youth in climate conversations, as they will inherit the consequences of today’s actions.

Social media reactions to the dialogue have been strong, with young activists using platforms to amplify their messages. Many are sharing personal stories and solutions, which fosters a sense of community and urgency around climate action.

Bringing together diverse voices is critical for meaningful change. As nations prepare for discussions like the Sagarmatha Dialogue, the inclusion of youth perspectives can shape effective solutions and policies.

For more insights on climate change and youth engagement, you can visit UNICEF’s page on climate.

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