Arab Youth Voices Shape Climate Policy in Fifth Empowerment Session
The Arab Youth Sustainable Development Network (AYSDN) organized the fifth session of its Empowerment program on Monday, July 7, 2025, under the title: “Developing Public Climate Change Policies – Youth Recommendations and Statements.” The session was held virtually via Zoom and gathered 146 youth participants from across the Arab world to engage in a focused dialogue on climate policy-making from a youth perspective.
The session featured three inspiring speakers: Saad Al-Qais, a social and climate activist and researcher in youth, peacebuilding, and climate justice; Donia Hani Ali Kouka, a climate change researcher and trainer; and Bashar Nabil Abdulsamad, an environmental activist and trainer in climate governance. Each speaker brought forward practical insights and experiences reflecting the challenges and opportunities facing youth in influencing environmental policies in their respective countries.
Participants shared local examples of youth-led initiatives and highlighted the importance of involving young people in the development and implementation of national climate policies. They also discussed existing gaps in policy and stressed the need for greater investment in youth capacity-building and inclusive dialogue platforms.
The session concluded with a set of key recommendations, including integrating youth input in national and regional climate strategies, increasing access to climate policy education, and supporting youth-led green initiatives. AYSDN reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young people and amplifying their role in building sustainable and just climate solutions.
