Way Forward Statement (written by Shan Bannirshelvam, Yves Paquet and Patience)

Written by Yves PAQUET 14-05-2010

Thank you Chair,

Take a look carefully at your chair. In a few years, its privilage, and its responsibility will fall upon us as a generation to confront the issues that are left unresolved today. As the Major Group for Children and Youth, we would like the following to be considered for CSD 19: 

Definition of targets

What is measured gets done. The children and youth recognise that the definition, dissemination, and commitment to implementation targets are vital to their performance. With these clear targets, civil society, youth, and state actors can be empowered to work across organisational boundaries to build a better future. 

 Empowerment and Participation

Participation of Youth at all levels is crucial,and we therefore recommend that all governments include young people as part of their delegations from CSD19 onwards.

The role of youth should be embedded in the 10 year framework, both in the process of drafting, institutional support and the content of the programmes

 Education and Awareness

We recommend that education should be prioritised, as it's a key for attainment of sustainable development. Quick Question: How will SD be acheived in chemicals, waste management, technological transfer etc, if we don't have educated children and young people. Education will also address the gap between policy and implementation. Youth Organisations should play a key role as providers for non formal learning in order to raise awareness about the importance to shift towards urgently needed sustainable lifestyles. 

In Conclusion

Governments may face the challenge of public accountability, NGOs may face the challenge of resource constraints, and as youth we face the challenge of recognition in institutional structures. Over the last two weeks, the youth and children have consistently defined themselves by their unity, committment and perseverance. We hope, for our common future, that as we look forward we can keep true to the dreams of children and youth. 

This world demands concrete governments actions and results.

 Thank You Chair.