A Journey to COY19: Amplifying Youth Voices for Climate Action

I was truly honored to participate in COY19 Baku as a delegate! 🌍 The Conference of Youth (COY) is an exceptional annual event, organized by youth for youth, that takes place right before the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP). This event brings together young leaders, activists, and advocates from around the world to discuss urgent climate issues, develop actionable solutions, and contribute to the creation of the Global Youth Statement—a document that captures the perspectives, hopes, and demands of young people regarding climate action.

What makes COY19 in Baku particularly significant is the powerful platform it provides for youth to be involved in shaping international climate negotiations. The Global Youth Statement that emerged from the event is a collective voice calling for stronger, more ambitious climate action. This statement not only amplifies youth perspectives but also serves as a tool for influencing the outcomes of COP negotiations, ensuring that the concerns of the younger generation are heard at the highest levels of global governance.

The election process for delegates at COY19 was both rigorous and inclusive, which added an extra layer of transparency and fairness to the event. It was inspiring to see how many dedicated young people were eager to contribute to the climate movement and represent their communities. This democratic process ensured that a diverse group of delegates, including myself, could take part in the discussions and decision-making that would shape the direction of the climate agenda.

Being part of COY19 has been a truly empowering experience. Not only did it provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the climate space, but it also gave me the tools to continue advocating for meaningful climate action. I am more determined than ever to ensure that youth voices are integrated into the global conversation on climate change, and I look forward to continuing this journey toward a sustainable and just future for all.

COY19 was just the beginning. We, the youth, are ready to make our mark and drive impactful change. Let’s keep pushing forward, together! 🌱