Urged to increase investment in youth and climate-friendly governance

By TRN Online, Kathmandu, July 1: Youth leaders and stakeholders have called for greater investment in young people and youth-friendly climate governance, emphasising the importance of ensuring youth participation in local policymaking, especially on climate and environmental issues.

This call to action came during the National Workshop on Youth, Climate Change, and GESI, organised by Jagriti Child and Youth Concern Nepal (Jcycn) in collaboration with the British Council Nepal in Kathmandu.

Participants have highlighted the need for stronger implementation of existing frameworks and increased resources for youth-friendly local governance.

Sharing by youth participants from Madhyabindu and Sunwal municipalities of Gandaki and Lumbini Provinces, who led community actions despite monsoon challenges, emphasised that investing in youth builds their capacity and access to contribute effectively to climate action.

Youth of Madhyabindu Municipality, Reetu Gharti, said that her house is very near the riverside and they are facing the disaster challenge every year.

"The disaster response is very slow in the municipality, and there is no pre-disaster preparedness. For this year, we are also very much worried. After this program's implementation in our municipality, I am taking smaller actions at my level." She said, "Like I have gathered youth from my community and started a plantation campaign in my community, the children’s garden. I gathered small children and taught them about the environment and its importance.”

The event brought together youth leaders, civil society organisations, government representatives, and development partners to reflect on the achievements and lessons learned from the Climate and Social Action Project. Keynote speaker, Associate Professor of Central Department of Environmental Sciences, Tribhuvan University, Dr. Sudip Thakuri stressed the urgency of youth leadership for climate resilience and inclusive action.

Head of Solutions Mapping at UNDP Nepal, Binita Karki, underlined the importance of mentorship and digital advocacy, sharing insights from Madi and Tilottama municipalities.

Program Manager at British Council Nepal, Kewal Shrestha, shared the vision behind the program and recognised youth as powerful voices capable of addressing unanswered questions in society related to climate and conservation.

Conservation officer of NTNC Gobinda Prasad Pokharel highlighted youth engagement in Nepal’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and community-level approaches. 

Senior Vice President of the NGO Federation Nepal, Nanimaya Thapa, called for sustained, long-term investment in youth beyond short project cycles.

She said that the NGO Federation is always with youth, let’s work together, not only when they have funding.