(TURKISH JOURNAL) – Nishat Mirza – The ‘Summit of the Future Action Days’ kicked off with a powerful focus on “A Sustainable Future for All,” highlighting the vital role of young people in using technology to tackle global challenges. The event, held at the United Nations headquarters, brought together youth leaders, experts, and policymakers to discuss innovative solutions for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
At the heart of the discussions was the critical role of youth in harnessing technology to drive change. UN Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, Fellpe Pullier, emphasized that young people are not merely observers but active participants in addressing global crises such as climate change, inequality, and conflict. “Youth are already at the forefront of these efforts, using technology to amplify their voices and to create solutions that are inclusive, sustainable, and forward-thinking,” Pullier said.
One key session highlighted how youth from around the world, including representatives from Yemen, Lebanon, and Kenya, are using artificial intelligence, digital platforms, and social media to connect, organize, and take action. By creating networks that transcend borders, they are uniting to challenge injustices and ensure their voices are heard in global decision-making processes.
The summit also addressed one of the biggest hurdles to achieving the SDGs: financing. Hunger is rising, fossil fuel use and global temperatures continue to soar, and conflicts are spreading, all while gender equality efforts are stalling, say DSG Aminah Mohamed. The commitment to leaving no one behind, a key pillar of Agenda 2030, is falling short. Speakers at the Action Days acknowledged that without a robust financial framework, the ambitious goals of Agenda 2030 will remain out of reach.
The importance of securing adequate financing was underscored in discussions about intergenerational solidarity and sustainable development. Youth activists called for equitable resource allocation and increased investments in green technologies that can reduce environmental degradation while creating new economic opportunities.
Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, during the closing ceremony, emphasized the need for an intergenerational approach to addressing global challenges. “The world we want is one where young people are at the forefront of decision-making processes,” she said. “Technology can be the bridge that unites youth around the world and ensures that their vision of a sustainable future is realized.”
This vision was echoed by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who noted that the fight against climate change, poverty, and inequality cannot be won without the full inclusion of younger generations. He called for greater representation of youth in global governance and decision-making, stressing that the future belongs to them and they must be empowered to shape it.
A session devoted to climate action featured a powerful case study from Madagascar, where environmental youth leaders have been instrumental in shaping national climate policies. However, speakers stressed that in many parts of the world, civil society voices are still marginalized. Young people, particularly in the Global South, called for greater inclusion in policy discussions and emphasized the importance of giving youth a seat at the decision-making table.
Throughout the Action Days, thematic sessions focused on areas such as artificial intelligence, the arts, and environmental justice. Youth from various regions discussed how AI can be used to tackle climate change, improve education, and promote gender equality. Meanwhile, artistic sessions showcased how young people are using art to communicate the urgent need for nature conservation and environmental protection.
UN Women also organized side events that focused on empowering young women in the fight for gender equality, further highlighting the intersectional nature of the challenges at hand.
A Global Call to Action
The Summit of the Future Action Days concluded with a resounding call to action. Thousands of young people from across the globe participated, demonstrating their commitment to building a more sustainable, inclusive world. The event made it clear that youth leadership and innovation, particularly through the use of technology, will be central to realizing the goals of the future.
As the summit progresses, young people remain at the forefront, determined to be the driving force behind global efforts to achieve a sustainable, just, and equitable future for all.
