At the ICPD30 Global Youth Dialogue, young voices resonated with passion and purpose, shaping a vision for the future. As the event unfolded in Benin, more than 400 young people from 130 countries celebrated the role of young people as changemakers and custodians of the conference's Programme of Action, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development through empowering women and girls and addressing individuals' rights and choices.
Reflecting on the progress made since the landmark International Conference on Population and Development, Dr. Natalia Kanem, UNFPA Executive Director, highlighted significant achievements, such as a 25% increase in the global contraceptive prevalence rate and a 42% decrease in the adolescent birth rate from 1990 to 2020. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, with approximately 800 women dying during pregnancy or delivery every day and a quarter of a billion women lacking access to modern contraceptives. “Though the progress of the past 30 years has been significant, there is still so much to be done," she said.
Mohammed Yakubu Sherif, a dedicated YoLe Fellow and delegate from Ghana, emphasized the importance of youth engagement in decision-making processes, stating, "The Global Youth Dialogue presents a unique opportunity for young people to engage in meaningful conversations given that the ICPD gives young people the chance to thrive". His advocacy for youth representation and empowerment echoed throughout the conference, inspiring others to recognize the transformative power of youth involvement in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future.
As the dialogue concluded, young participants presented their recommendations, inviting key stakeholders to commit to bringing their vision to life. Representatives from the African Union Commission, the Economic Community of West African States, the UN Youth Office, and the Embassy of Germany in Benin pledged to support the youth-driven agenda for positive change.
The ICPD30 Global Youth Dialogue served as a platform for celebrating achievements, addressing challenges, and reimagining the future of sustainable development through the lens of youth empowerment and engagement. The gains and challenges shared during the event underscored the progress made and the urgent need to continue working towards a more inclusive and rights-based approach to development.
