UAE Launches Global Climate Program For Youth Ahead Of COP28

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched a new international program for the youth in preparation for the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28).

Dubbed the International Youth Climate Delegate Program (International YCDP), the initiative aims to ensure the youth's active involvement in the fight against climate change.

"I am excited to announce the International Youth Climate Delegate Programme for COP28," said Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and President-designate of COP 28, during the unveiling of the International YCDP at the "Road to COP28" event at Expo City on Wednesday, The National News reported. "This initiative will give a special focus to least developed countries and small island states."

"It will give all participants the training, resources and opportunity to advocate on behalf of their countries and communities," he added. "We may not know what the future holds--but we know who holds the future. It is you--our young people."

Aimed at hearing out the voices and perspectives of the youth in the multilateral COP process, the drive involves selecting 100 youth delegates from the least developed countries and small island developing states, who will take part in climate discussions and related public-private partnership initiatives. It will also feature the participation of indigenous peoples and minority groups. Financial backing and capacity-building exercises will be provided to all participants.

Based on the guidelines, participants in the initiative should be between 18 and 35, and should have prior experience in climate discussions. Interested applicants have until April 7 to submit their applications, WAM reported. After the selection process, those who make the cut will have the opportunity to take the front-row seats during climate negotiations.

Led by UAE's Minister of Community Development Shamma Al Mazrui, the COP28 Youth Climate Champion team will work alongside the youth arm of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Youngo, in supervising the new initiative.

"Meaningful youth empowerment is a critical pillar towards the success of COP28, because we recognize that the energy and ingenuity young people bring to the table are key drivers in propelling momentum, and provide groundbreaking solutions needed to invigorate the pathway towards our 2030 goals," said Al Mazrui.

The 28th Conference of Parties, which comprises all the members of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, will be held from Nov. 30 to Dec. 12 at Expo City, Dubai