Continuing climate change threatens the occurrence of more disasters, from severe heat waves and droughts to devastating floods and hurricanes and the outbreak of forest fires, and thus more natural and human losses, unless global efforts, with all its institutions, organizations and individuals, join forces to work to reduce global warming and environmental destruction.
From this standpoint, global recommendations continue regarding the importance of involving young people, especially in the Middle East, out of belief in the importance of their role in putting forward ideas in order to enrich the work agenda and reach sustainable global solutions for the future of future generations.
The United Nations states that the countries of the MENA Region appear to be among the most affected by climate change, which now threatens to have serious negative effects, while climate activists in these countries are waging their climate battle and demanding that leaders and decision-makers in these countries recognize the reality of climate change and its seriousness and act accordingly, and establish human rights.
Speaking of the countries of the MENA Region, climate change issues are not their only problem, but rather a new issue added to a long list of problems they suffer from, including political instability, economic disparities, social unrest, and environmental degradation.
These challenges require immediate attention, and it is important to recognize that young people in this region are disproportionately affected. Their perspectives and contributions are pivotal in shaping sustainable solutions.
Yemen, in particular, faces enormous challenges due to ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises. Youth in Yemen have difficulties accessing basic necessities such as education, health care, and economic opportunities.
It is essential that we prioritize their needs and actively engage them in governance and development endeavors, and effectively addressing these global concerns requires ensuring that youth are represented in decision-making processes at all levels.
This requires creating platforms for dialogue, cooperation and engagement with youth-led initiatives.
Ashraf Al-Asbahi, a Yemeni environmental activist and Programs Coordinator with the Arab Youth Sustainable Development Network (AYSDN), says that one of the most effective methods to empower young people is to invest in their education, skills and entrepreneurship.
Providing them with basic tools and resources enables them to become catalysts for change, youth will be able to confront challenges and contribute to sustainable development within their communities.