About 25 youth climate activists and changemakers from the region are convening
in Samoa this week for the Futuring Peace in Northeast Asia and the Pacific
Strategic Foresight Youth Workshop.
Organized by the United Nations Development Programme and the United Nations Department of
Political and Peace Building Affairs, the workshop recognizes that young people are important
stakeholders in the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“We need young people at the centre of our collective efforts. The SDGs underscore the
importance of empowering all individuals, including youth, to ensure inclusion and participation in
decision-making processes. Young people are not just beneficiaries of development agendas; they
are active agents of change, catalysts for progress, and architects of peace and justice,” said
Themba Kalua, United Nations Resident Coordinator.
“We must embrace innovative approaches such as strategic foresight to navigate uncertainties and
explore alternative futures. Strategic foresight empowers us to envision a sustainable future and
chart a course towards its realization. We must also establish platforms for learning and sharing of
lessons and good practices. This Strategic Foresight Youth workshop serves as a critical forum for
these purposes.”
Young people play a role in promoting peace and justice (Goal 16). Their involvement in conflict
prevention, resolution, and building inclusive societies is essential for a sustainable and peaceful
world. Furthermore, youth engagement in climate action is crucial for achieving Goal 13 (Climate
Action). Globally, regionally, and nationally, many young activists and organizations are at the
forefront of advocating for environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
As mandated by the Secretary General of the United Nations through the Youth 2030 Agenda, the
Secretary General’s Common Agenda and the UN Security Council Resolutions on Youth, Peace
and Security, the importance of youth engagement and foresight exercises in achieving
sustainable peace, preventing conflict, and advancing the 2030 Agenda, is recognized and
encouraged.

MEDIA RELEASE

Over the next two days, the workshop participants will develop future visions in line with the Paris
Agreement and accelerating the net-zero transition. They will produce a 'Call to Action' paper
containing advocacy recommendations, with an aim to present the document to relevant regional
and global stakeholders ahead of key events such as COP29, the Commonwealth Heads of
Governments meeting (CHOGM), the 4th International SIDS Conference, the Summit of the
Future, and other major events this year.