The EU urges the involvement of youth in the dialogue on climate change

Pedro Velazquez, Head of the European Union Section for Civil Society, Gender Issues and Human Rights, said that the problem of climate change is not only an environmental but also an economic challenge that requires innovative and sustainable solutions.

Speaking at the ICAF International Debate, Velazquez highlighted the EU's key role in supporting government climate protection initiatives, highlighting the need to integrate young people into these discussions to increase their awareness and engagement. As he said, the European Union is convinced that young people must have the opportunity to actively participate in the climate dialogue.

"We have here representatives of universities and students who are the leaders of the future. It is essential that they defend their opinions and engage in their communities, cities and not only in the private sector but also in the public sphere,” added Velazquez.

According to him, young people have a unique opportunity to engage in various forms of peer education and participate in school and community programs focused on climate education. In this way, they can actively contribute to building a more informed and proactive generation that will be able to face the challenges related to climate change.

Engaging young people in these activities is not just about their education; it is also about strengthening their influence on decision-making in the field of climate policies. Directly engaging in dialogue will allow young people to express their views and initiatives, thereby contributing to the creation of more sustainable solutions and policies to protect our planet.

It is important that the EU and Member States create the conditions and platforms to support this engagement, so that young people can take the initiative and become real leaders in the fight against climate change. (Co2AI)