LocationsSamoa hosts key regional youth workshop on peace and development
March 25, 2024
Participants of the Strategic Foresight Youth Workshop now underway in Samoa, with the UN Resident Coordinator & UNDP Resident Representative
Apia, Samoa – About 25 youth climate activists and changemakers from the region are convening in Samoa this week for the Futuring Peace in Northeast Asia and the Pacific
Strategic Foresight Youth Workshop.
Organized by the United Nations Development Programme and the United Nations Department of Political and Peace Building Affairs, the workshop recognizes that young people are important stakeholders in the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“We need young people at the centre of our collective efforts. The SDGs underscore the importance of empowering all individuals, including youth, to ensure inclusion and participation in decision-making processes. Young people are not just beneficiaries of development agendas; they are active agents of change, catalysts for progress, and architects of peace and justice,” said Themba Kalua, United Nations Resident Coordinator.
“We must embrace innovative approaches such as strategic foresight to navigate uncertainties and explore alternative futures. Strategic foresight empowers us to envision a sustainable future and chart a course towards its realization. We must also establish platforms for learning and sharing of lessons and good practices. This Strategic Foresight Youth workshop serves as a critical forum for these purposes.”
(l-r) Youth presenter, Alesana Malo; main workshop facilitator, Ijun Kim; UN Resident Coordinator, Themba Kalua, UNDP Resident Representative, Aliona Niculita & UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, Verena Linneweber
Presenters at the youth workshop. (l-r) Alesana Malo - Research Scientist; Aloma Black - Environmentalist & Conservationist, and Fogamomi Nicc Moeono, Renewable Energy Engineer
Young people play a role in promoting peace and justice (Goal 16). Their involvement in conflict prevention, resolution, and building inclusive societies is essential for a sustainable and peaceful world. Furthermore, youth engagement in climate action is crucial for achieving Goal 13 (Climate Action). Globally, regionally, and nationally, many young activists and organizations are at the forefront of advocating for environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
As mandated by the Secretary General of the United Nations through the Youth 2030 Agenda, the Secretary General’s Common Agenda and the UN Security Council Resolutions on Youth, Peace and Security, the importance of youth engagement and foresight exercises in achieving sustainable peace, preventing conflict, and advancing the 2030 Agenda, is recognized and encouraged.
Over the next two days, the workshop participants will develop future visions in line with the Paris Agreement and accelerating the net-zero transition. They will produce a 'Call to Action' paper containing advocacy recommendations, with an aim to present the document to relevant regional and global stakeholders ahead of key events such as COP29, the Commonwealth Heads of Governments meeting (CHOGM), the 4th International SIDS Conference, the Summit of the Future, and other major events this year.
-ENDS-
For media queries, please contact:
Laufaleaina Lesa, UNDP Multi Country Office, Samoa|Tel. +685 23670 | E: laufaleaina.lesa@undp.org
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