From Local Action to Global Influence

In the face of rising climate challenges and environmental degradation, the window for meaningful change is closing but young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they are the champions of today. From organizing clean-ups in their communities to leading climate advocacy, youth across the country are acting.  

Beyond grassroots movements, did you know there are formal ways for young people to influence global environmental policy?

Let’s talk about UNEP, the United Nations Environment Programme and how you can make your voice heard in global spaces.

3Es Experience as an accredited Organization with UNEP offers support and nomination for participants to engage and participate in the sessions. This includes the youth consultations, UNEP- related events and deliver statements and presentations in line with the theme of discussion. This also provides an avenue for the participants to network with government, civil society organizations, private sector, academia and other relevant stakeholders within.

Getting started, so what's AMCEN and UNEA?

• Africa Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) - is a key platform for African governments to collaborate on environmental issues affecting the continent. It also provides strategic guidance on Africa’s position in global environmental negotiations.
•  United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) - is the world’s highest-level decision-making body on the environment. It brings together governments, civil society, scientists, and businesses to set the global environmental agenda.

Both sessions influence policy at the national and international level and youth voices are increasingly welcome at the table. Engaging in the pre-sessions for UNEA and AMCEN youth consultations is important to understand the agenda and points of discard priority. 

Before major sessions, youth consultations are often organized to draft collective youth positions on key issues. These consultations help shape formal interventions during the main events.

During the UNEA-6 session in February 2024, young people led side events during the Global Youth Environment Assembly. At AMCEN, African youth have been increasingly active, calling for stronger action on biodiversity and best regional practices, multilateralism and youth priorities at all levels of governance. This shows that youth participation is not just symbolic but rather strategic and with a vision.

You don’t need to be a seasoned policy expert to make a difference. Start by connecting with us to build your knowledge and step into these global spaces with confidence. 

Join us today and engage in our capacity building sessions to build your knowledge, network and abilities to participate in these high-level sessions.