AGN Chair backs stronger inclusion of children in global climate negotiations

Nana Dr. Antwi-Boasiako Amoah, Chair of the African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change (AGN), has committed the Group's backing to enhancing the involvement of children and young individuals in global climate change discussions. Speaking at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Turkey, he emphasized Africa's responsibility to provide children with opportunities to contribute, considering their heightened vulnerability to climate impacts.

This push for greater child participation in climate negotiations originated at COP28 in Dubai, where discussions commenced on integrating young people's viewpoints into the global climate process. The AGN deemed this initiative crucial due to children's growing exposure to climate hazards, such as shifting rainfall patterns, higher temperatures, and flooding.

Studies have shown that African children are particularly susceptible to these hazards, underscoring the critical need for their voices to be heard in decisions affecting their future. The AGN Chair highlighted the importance of this initiative, pledging the Group's support to the climate conference leadership in Türkiye and Australia to strengthen children's engagement.

He also recalled the AGN's past support for securing language in climate process discussions that recognizes children's participation, including dialogues held in Bonn. Given Africa's young demographic, with a median age of around 19 years, Amoah believes this issue is especially pertinent. The AGN is exploring avenues such as the Just Transition work programme, the Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) agenda, and discussions on the COP cover decision to incorporate children's and youth-related concerns into the negotiations.

The AGN has assured young representatives of its commitment to supporting this initiative and advancing their interests through the negotiations. The engagement with youth representatives at COP31 was well-received, with one youth leader expressing deep appreciation for the AGN Chair's unwavering support and commitment. This renewed focus on child participation in climate negotiations reflects the growing demand for more inclusive climate governance, positioning children and young people not merely as victims of climate change but as key stakeholders whose perspectives must influence the policies and decisions shaping their future.