Young people will inherit the consequences of today's climate decisions, yet they remain largely uninvolved in big climate discussions, especially at COP (Conference Of the Parties)  events. With COP 29 approaching, which will take place on the 11th to the 22nd of November 2024 in Baku Azerbaijan,  this problem becomes increasingly evident. 

A significant factor relating to this issue is that there is simply a lack of awareness. Many young people are not aware of COP 29 or similar events where key climate policies are decided.  This lack of awareness can stem from limited coverage in youth-focused media, as well as the perception that such events are removed from daily life or that they will not affect them on an individual level.

Young people often feel they lack the ability to influence significant decisions regarding climate decisions and policies. COP conferences bring together world leaders and experienced policymakers, which create the impression that young voices are of less value or less welcome. As a result the perception of the environment and nature of these conferences  can themselves  be intimidating for young people.

While young people’s involvement is lacking, they are disproportionately affected by climate change. Air pollution, exacerbated by climate change, has been linked to increased rates of asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory issues in children and teens. 

As well as this, climate change has led to shifts in disease-carrying insect populations, such as mosquitoes and ticks, which are now found in previously unaffected areas. This increases the risk of diseases like Lyme disease,  Malaria and  Dengue fever for young people, especially in regions without adequate healthcare facilities to respond to their respective populations.

With COP 29 around the corner, it is clear that young people have a stake in climate policy decisions however often lack the knowledge or opportunities to influence them. Addressing this gap is essential, as today’s climate policies will directly shape the health, environment, and future opportunities of younger generations. 

The Climate Change and Water Advocacy Lead at UNICEF, Jeremy Sprigge, emphasizes the need for action as he says: “The climate crisis is not just changing the planet. It is changing children. Children’s bodies and minds are uniquely vulnerable to pollution, deadly diseases and extreme weather, and they are disproportionately affected by the impacts of disasters, environmental degradation and the climate crisis. As world leaders meet at COP29, the message must be clear. They must put children at the center of climate action and negotiations now. Because later is too late.”

According to UNICEF “ From pregnancy to adolescence, climate change is impacting almost every aspect of child health and well-being. Children are disproportionately affected because they are uniquely vulnerable to climate hazards that often overlap.” 

The stakes are high and if young people continue to be left out of the decision making process, the future they inherit may be decided without their say. The challenge now is not just to make young people aware but also to empower them to act swiftly and robustly.