As the Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted many aspects of life globally, efforts have been put in place to mitigate its effects. One such initiative is the Global Youth Mobilization, launched recently to assist young people in communities tremendously affected by the pandemic. To kick-off this initiative, a Global Youth Summit (GYS) will be held virtually from 23rd to 25th April 2021. This platform aims to equip youths aged between 14 and 30 with new insights, skills, and contacts while also providing an opportunity to engage with their peers, leaders, and policy makers.
Understanding Global Youth Mobilization
This initiative is essentially a movement by young individuals taking actionable steps to improve both their present circumstances and their future in a post-Covid-19 world. The underlying objective is to alleviate the negative impact of the pandemic on this demographic and provide them support for a resilient recovery, often referred to as ‘building back better’.
Key Organisations Involved
In its endeavor to support youth, the initiative has received backing from several global organizations. The world’s six largest youth organizations lend their support, alongside the World Health Organization (WHO), and the United Nations (UN) Foundation.
The Need for Youth Mobilization Amidst Covid-19
The need for such an initiative stems from the immense challenges faced by an estimated 1.2 billion young people due to the direct and indirect effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. The disruptions caused to education, employment prospects, provision of services, and social support structures have altered the trajectory of the entire generation’s future. The pandemic has created unprecedented struggles, thereby necessitating innovative solutions.
Funding the Initiative
The financial aspect of the Global Youth Mobilization initiative is supported by the Covid-19 Solidarity Response Fund. The initiative intends to utilize these funds to promote and scale up youth-led solutions and engagement programs worldwide. The Covid-19 Solidarity Response Fund was established by the WHO, in collaboration with the UN Foundation and the Swiss Philanthropy Foundation.
Source of the Initiative
The information about this initiative was reported by Down To Earth (DTE), an environmental publication known for its insightful reporting on global development issues.
Looking Forward
Understanding the crucial role that young individuals play in shaping the future, the Global Youth Mobilization initiative emphasizes empowering them to tackle the challenges presented by the ongoing pandemic. By providing youth with the necessary skills, insights, and a platform for engagement, the initiative prepares them to help build a more resilient post-Covid-19 world. Through global cooperation and youth empowerment, it hopes to turn the tide and ensure a better future for the generation most impacted by the pandemic.
