In response, the Secretary-General of the United Nations has called for a “Rescue Plan for People and Planet” for ambitious actions and shifts to jump-start progress through strengthened multilateral cooperation and support for the United Nations development system. The six transitions proposed are linked to food systems, energy access and affordability, digital connectivity, education, jobs and social protection, and climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution. These are priorities with catalytic and multiplier effects to accelerate SDG progress and require the full engagement of young people.

The 2024 RFSD took place against the backdrop of the outcome of the halfway review of the SDGs, but also looking forward to the “Summit of the Future” to forge a new international consensus to deliver better for present and safeguard the future.

Therefore, this side event brought together UN agencies, policy makers and practitioners to discuss and showcase, how to cooperate better to deliver on the above aspiration and goals by placing young people at the center of the agenda, and explore how to meet the needs of young people through the six transitions while also preparing for the challenges of the future? How to build trust and accountability with young people on commitments made in the past to promote the right of young people and future generations to a healthy environment, and their meaningful participation in decision-making at all levels? How to use the energy, passion, creativity, and dedication of young people to bring about impactful solutions to accelerate the SDGs by empowering young people. 

UNEP, UNESCO, UNECE, and Geneva Environment Network (GEN)