IYC-Y Propels Youth Action Against Desertification

The International Youth Council – Yemen (IYC-Yemen), represented by Engineer Tareq Hassan, actively participated in an expert group meeting hosted by the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) on June 17, 2022, in Beirut. The focus: mobilizing youth to combat desertification and drought, a critical challenge with profound implications for future generations.

Mr. Tareq Hassan’s Key Points:

• Urgency: We stand at a pivotal moment demanding decisive action to shape a sustainable future for generations to come. Cities themselves need transformation.
• Youth Vulnerability: Nearly 160 million children face severe or very high drought levels, highlighting the disproportionate impact on young people. Climate change will further exacerbate extreme weather events and land degradation.
• Youth as Solution Providers: This generation holds the key to finding solutions. Young people will be instrumental in combating desertification and drought.
• Investing in Youth Empowerment: Recognizing the unprecedented population of young people today, it’s crucial to invest in them as agents of change. International organizations must champion youth empowerment in climate change policies and programs.
• Applauding Youth Initiatives: Hassan commended impressive youth-led initiatives aimed at mitigating climate change and combating desertification, safeguarding our planet for future generations.

Actionable Proposals:

To effectively integrate youth into policy-making and combat activities:

• Empower local youth: Involve them in decision-making, grant them opportunities, and amplify their voices.
• Champion marginalized groups: Advocate for the voices of youth, women, indigenous communities, and other marginalized populations in global climate discussions.
• Invest in environmental education: Equip young people with knowledge in areas like land management, drought, and desertification.
• Qualify and empower young graduates: Support them in securing environment-related jobs and leadership roles in combating desertification and drought.
• Integrate youth in climate action: Include young people in discussions and decision-making around climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.
• Localize youth engagement: Foster their participation in regional and local consultations on combating desertification and drought.