On November 19, 2024, we held an Intergenerational Fireside Chat at the Children & Youth Pavilion, focusing on “Water Governance: The Role of Youth in Shaping Sustainable Water Policies.” This session brought together youth leaders and experts to discuss how young people are addressing water challenges, influencing policies, and contributing to climate action.
Each panelist shared their unique perspective:
- Iulia Duca (IOM – UN Migration) explained the links between water governance and migration, emphasizing how water scarcity and climate change are driving displacement. She discussed how better water management could support displaced communities.
- Noémie Plumier (International Secretariat for Water) shared her work with the 1 Million Youth Actions Challenge, which mobilizes young people globally to take concrete action on water issues. She spoke about making youth initiatives more inclusive and accessible.
- Vladyslav Levchuk (UNICEF Ukraine, LCOY Ukraine) highlighted the role of local youth initiatives in addressing water issues in Ukraine, particularly during times of crisis. He shared how young people are driving solutions despite significant challenges.
- Begim Zhanuzakova (YOUNGO Water & Climate) focused on the links between water governance and climate justice. She shared how youth networks like YOUNGO are building collaborations to amplify young voices in water and climate discussions.
- Alan Said Hernández Vázquez (Youth4Nature, YOUNGO) discussed the importance of combining nature-based solutions with water governance. He emphasized the need to integrate traditional knowledge into modern practices.
Moderated by Manal Bidar (Water Youth Network), the session highlighted the work youth are doing to shape water policies and bring attention to global water challenges.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to the discussion. Let’s keep working together for sustainable water solutions and stronger youth involvement in global decisions!