In recent news, as part of its Youth 20 (Y20) agenda under the G20 Presidency, India hosted the Y20 Consultation at the University of Kashmir. The event aimed to engage the nation’s youth in discussions and ideas-generation aimed at building a better future. The focal point of these conversations was Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction, under the broader theme ‘Making Sustainability a Way of Life’.
Overview of the Y20 Consultation Event
On December 1, 2022, India commenced its one-year term holding the presidency of the G20 until November 30, 2023. Drawing from its deeply ingrained civilizational value system, India identified its theme for the presidency as ‘Vasudeva Kutumbakam’ – a Sanskrit phrase from the ancient Maha Upanishad that translates to ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’.
As part of this initiative, the Indian Department of Youth Affairs has been given the task to arrange the Youth 20 Summit in 2023. The Youth20 forms a significant part of the official Engagement Groups of the G20, furnishing a platform for the younger generation to bring their perspectives and ideas forward and influence the G20’s priority areas.
Main Themes of Discussion
The Y20 Consultation event sought to focus on five chief themes:
1. Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction: Promoting sustainability as a standard lifestyle
2. Future of Work: Examining Industry 4.0, Innovation, & 21st Century Skills
3. Peacebuilding and Reconciliation: Encouraging an era of No War
4. Shared Future: Analyzing the role of Youth in Democracy and Governance
5. Health, Well-being & Sports: Setting an agenda for youth participation
These themes were discussed among 17 youth delegates hailing from various G20 countries such as Indonesia, Mexico, Turkey, Russia, Japan, South Korea, the United States, Brazil and Nigeria. Additionally, students from the University of Kashmir and neighboring schools in J&K also had an active participation in the event.
Key Points of Debate
The event saw the arrangement of four panel discussions centered around specific sub-themes:
1. Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity and Human Well-Being
2. Disaster Risk Reduction Measures for a safer tomorrow
3. Innovations and Opportunities in Green Energy
4. Challenges and Future Prospects of Water Resources
The discussions aimed to address and propose solutions to these crucial issues, with the goal being to foster an environment promoting sustainable growth, peace, and development for all. The outcomes of these discussions will be instrumental in shaping international policy directions, emphasizing youth’s significant role in global policy-making.
