As the Summit of the Future takes place from September 22-24, 2024 in New York, Frontline for Climate Action stands firm in our mission to address the climate crisis and advocate for a just, inclusive, and sustainable future. This summit presents a critical opportunity for the world to unite and take decisive action on the climate emergency that threatens our planet and the well-being of future generations.
However, while the Summit promises solutions for a better tomorrow, many young people—the very individuals who will inherit the outcomes of these decisions—are facing significant barriers to participating fully. It is deeply concerning that, despite the global emphasis on youth engagement, numerous young activists face logistical and financial challenges that hinder their ability to attend and contribute to the summit in New York.
Young people without accreditation are left on the sidelines, eager to participate but unable to access official proceedings.
Young people with accreditation but no funding are struggling to cover travel costs and accommodation, while their presence is crucial to shaping the future.
Others have secured funding but no accreditation, leaving them unable to enter the spaces where decisions are being made.
Visa issuance delays and rejections are further complicating participation, as many young activists from different countries face obstacles in securing timely visas to attend the summit.
Accommodation shortages and other logistical issues further complicate the situation, making it difficult for youth to navigate their way through the summit.
These barriers are emblematic of the wider structural inequalities that have long marginalized young voices in global decision-making processes. It is unacceptable that those who are most passionate, knowledgeable, and impacted by climate change are being hindered from participating fully in this critical event.
Frontline for Climate Action calls on the international community, the United Nations, and Multilateral Organizations to urgently address these barriers by putting in place a robust support system that ensures young people can participate meaningfully in the Summit of the Future. We recommend the following actions:
Expand Access to Accreditation: Simplify and expand the accreditation process to ensure that more youth can access the summit and actively contribute to discussions.
Provide Financial Support: Allocate dedicated funds to cover travel, accommodation, and participation costs for young people, particularly those from marginalized and vulnerable communities.
Facilitate Visa Issuance: Work with governments and consulates to ensure that young people receive the necessary visas in time to attend the summit.
Ensure Logistical Coordination: Facilitate affordable accommodation and provide clear logistical support so that young participants can focus on the summit’s important work without undue stress.
Empower Youth Voices: Create formal platforms within the summit that prioritize the inclusion of young people’s perspectives in key discussions and decision-making processes.
The Summit of the Future is an unprecedented opportunity for the global community to chart a new path toward sustainability, equity, and resilience. Youth are not just stakeholders—they are the leaders of tomorrow, and they must be given every opportunity to help shape the future they will live in. The barriers to participation that young people face must be broken down, and the global community must work together to empower and uplift youth voices in these critical conversations.
Frontline for Climate Action stands in solidarity with young people everywhere, and we urge world leaders, multilateral organizations, and the UN to act swiftly in ensuring that youth participation is not only possible but meaningful.
Together, we can ensure a summit that truly reflects the diverse voices, aspirations, and solutions that will drive a sustainable future for all.
Frontline for Climate Action
17th September 2024
The future is for the youth. It must be owned now not later