The International Youth Network for the Universal Declaration of Human Rights issued a declaration on the occasion of the 30th Conference of the Parties in Belém, Brazil (COP30), opening with the statement that “the International Network is a committed and strong voice for global youth, a transnational group of young people representing all continents, cultures, civilizations and religions of the world, working together to promote the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, defend the fundamental rights of humanity and present an ethical, solidarity-based and sustainable vision for our global ecosystem.”
The network explained that “the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is its common foundation, which carries moral values, and this common foundation, which reflects its unwavering commitment to the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, guides its commitment,” adding that “these principles form the basis of its vision of a world in which human dignity, the preservation of life, the protection of biodiversity, and intergenerational solidarity are at the heart of the public policies that form the basis of the youth struggle.”
The network stressed that “human rights and duties are interconnected and indivisible,” affirming its “firm commitment to the rights and duties stipulated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as every right entails a responsibility, and every generation has a duty to preserve the living conditions of future generations.”
After reminding the same body that “failure to take action on climate change is an injustice to future generations,” it expressed “grave concern about the lack of action and the accumulating delays in achieving climate goals in particular and sustainable development goals in general, and that some national dynamics are at odds with global ambitions, putting our common destiny as humanity at risk.”
The International Youth Network for the Universal Declaration of Human Rights noted that “biodiversity is in danger,” expressing “concern about the continued deterioration of biodiversity and living ecosystems,” and warning that “this reality affects natural balances, local cultures and the living conditions of millions of people around the world.”
The same body also stressed that “global crises and wars should not overshadow the climate crisis,” expressing “concern about geopolitical and economic crises and the politically and humanly irresponsible return to the arms race, which may lead to neglecting the climate crisis,” and emphasizing that “combating climate change must remain a top priority.”
The network emphasized that “the Amazon is a symbol of hope,” renewing “its confidence in the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) held in Brazil, home of the Amazon, which is a priceless treasure for the global environment,” and calling for “the protection and appreciation of this region as a common property of humanity, with a commitment to the traditional knowledge of the indigenous people.”
The same body pointed out that “responsibility towards future generations is a moral duty,” calling on “governmental and non-governmental delegations to take into account and defend the interests of current and future generations, by working to reconcile economic, social and geopolitical requirements with the need to create the appropriate conditions for the success of climate and societal transformation.”
The same body stressed that “transition financing is a prerequisite for justice,” and called on “the parties concerned at the 30th Conference of the Parties to find concrete solutions for financing climate transition, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where the financing shortfall requires a strong and united international mobilization.”
The network also stressed that “the ecological transition must be fair and inclusive,” highlighting the importance of “this transition simultaneously enabling the elimination of extreme poverty in the world,” and stating that “social justice is a prerequisite for achieving climate justice.”
The International Youth Network for the Universal Declaration of Human Rights went on to emphasize that “international solidarity is an indispensable lever,” and recommended “giving a new impetus to international solidarity and cooperation, which are essential pillars for the success of the climate transition and ensuring peace.” It also stated that “special attention must be paid to Africa, the least polluting continent but the most affected by the various impacts of climate change,” considering that “Africa should be a strategic priority in combating climate change,” and calling in this context for “recognition of its cultural particularities and its central position in global environmental, demographic, economic and geostrategic balances.”
The same body added that “the world’s youth must be involved in decision-making, not just be spectators or token figures,” stressing “the need to involve young people in designing and implementing transition plans in an effective and meaningful way.” It added that “young people around the world are already taking on leadership and responsibilities in climate change and have valuable input that must be heard in future-related decision-making spaces.”
The network emphasized that “innovation is an ally of climate transition,” calling for “greater, but responsible, integration of innovation and technology into environmental thinking,” along with “the ethical use of artificial intelligence to design sustainable and accessible solutions,” and stressing that “technological solutions should be developed and shared for the benefit of all humanity, not for profit.”
The network concluded its announcement by affirming that “our commitment as global youth to life and biodiversity is total,” declaring “our readiness to actively contribute to the defense of the international climate agenda, through a firm and clear call and concrete actions at all levels to serve a prosperous, united and planet-respecting humanity,” and affirming that “youth will remain committed to preserving humanity’s common resources.”
