The Summit of the Future has sparked significant interest among those striving to change the world, especially the younger generation. But how can this forum go beyond just another round of discussions and truly become a launchpad for profound changes?
Alina Reitze, a 21-year-old student of Global Environmental and Sustainability Studies and a UN youth delegate, emphasizes the importance not only of ambitious decisions but also of real opportunities for young people. She points out that two days of the summit are clearly not enough to solve global issues, but they can serve as a catalyst for further reforms. The key is to transform these impulses into the start of long-term processes.
Reitze highlights the challenges young people face in participating in political processes. The issue isn’t just about a lack of time or resources but also the structure of the UN’s work, which often excludes youth due to bureaucratic barriers. She notes that “complex documents and tight deadlines for comments” do not create a youth-friendly environment. For genuine participation, it’s essential not only to provide a dedicated section for young people but to integrate their perspectives across all areas of work.
A critical point here is the diversity of voices. Youth is not a homogeneous group with identical needs. Alina stresses the importance of considering the voices of various social backgrounds, especially those who don’t belong to the privileged, university-educated circles. The voices of young people from the Global South are often unheard, leading to a distorted view of the needs and proposals of the younger generation.
Reitze sees youth as a “catalyst for fresh ideas and innovations,” but they face barriers: a lack of transparency and complex structures. Although she will not be able to attend the Summit of the Future in person, six young observers from Germany will represent youth interests.
However, the question remains: Will the Summit of the Future move beyond symbolic steps and create conditions where the voices of young people are not only heard in specific sections but also in key decision-making processes that will shape the future of the entire planet?
Source: deutschland
