Report on Participation in the Regional Conference of Youth (RCOY) 2023, Egypt
Introduction:
As the designated Country Contact Point for Yemen, I had the honor of representing Yemeni youth at the Regional Conference of Youth (RCOY) held in Egypt in November 2023. The event was a vital platform for exchanging ideas, fostering collaboration, and enhancing the engagement of young people in the discourse on climate change and sustainable development.
Objectives of Participation:
- Represent Yemen and voice the concerns and aspirations of its youth regarding climate change and sustainability.
- Share the Yemeni Youth Statement, which encapsulates the collective viewpoint and recommendations of Yemeni youth on environmental issues.
- Network with other youth delegates and stakeholders to explore collaborative projects and initiatives.
- Gain insights into the latest discussions and innovations related to climate change that can be implemented in Yemen.
Activities and Engagement:
Throughout the conference, I participated in various workshops, panel discussions, and collaborative sessions focused on topics such as renewable energy, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture. These discussions were crucial in understanding the broader impacts of climate change in the MENA region and beyond.
Key Highlights:
- Presenting the Yemeni Youth Statement:
- I delivered the Youth Statement outlining the challenges Yemen faces in terms of climate vulnerability, focusing on issues such as water scarcity, food insecurity, and the impact of ongoing conflicts on environmental degradation.
- The statement highlighted specific recommendations from Yemeni youth.
- Networking and Collaborations:
- Established connections with youth leaders from other countries, enabling the exchange of ideas and best practices.
- Discussed potential partnerships with NGOs focusing on renewable energy projects in conflict zones, which could be applicable to Yemeni contexts.
- Workshops and Learning:
- Participated in a workshop on ‘Youth Advocacy for Climate Action,’ which provided insights into effective strategies for engaging with policymakers.
- Attended a session on Climate Change and gender,
Outcomes and Future Directions:
The participation in RCOY 2023 was highly fruitful, allowing for the international representation of Yemeni youth and the sharing of our unique perspectives and challenges. Moving forward, the connections made and knowledge gained will be instrumental in:
- Developing a strategic plan for implementing the suggestions discussed at the conference.
- Engaging with international partners to launch pilot projects in renewable energy and sustainable practices in Yemen.
Continuing to engage and mobilize the Yemeni youth community through workshops and informational sessions to disseminate the learnings from the conference.
Conclusion:
The experience at RCOY 2023 not only amplified the voice of Yemeni youth in the global arena but also reinforced the need for inclusive, sustainable development strategies that address the specific vulnerabilities and capacities of Yemen. Our ongoing commitment to environmental advocacy and sustainable development will continue to be informed by the insights and collaborations initiated at this conference. Further, we aim to utilize the momentum generated to catalyze more robust and effective environmental actions within Yemen.
Conclusion:
The experience at RCOY 2023 not only amplified the voice of Yemeni youth in the global arena but also reinforced the need for inclusive, sustainable development strategies that address the specific vulnerabilities and capacities of Yemen. Our ongoing commitment to environmental advocacy and sustainable development will continue to be informed by the insights and collaborations initiated at this conference. Further, we aim to utilize the momentum generated to catalyze more robust and effective environmental actions within Yemen.
Acknowledgments:
I would like to extend my gratitude to the organizers of the Regional Conference of Youth in Egypt for an impeccably organized event, and to all the participants and collaborators who contributed to the enriching discussions and shared invaluable perspectives. Special thanks to the Yemeni youth and stakeholders who entrusted me with their representation and shared vision.
