Public RelationsUPNVJ - Alya Zahra Sabira, Bachelor of International Relations student class of 2023 at the National Development University "Veteran" Jakarta was selected as a UNICEF delegate to take part in the COP28 process from 3 December 2023 to 10 December 2023.
The 28th Summit of the Parties (COP28) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has taken place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with global leaders and representatives gathering to address crucial issues related to climate change.
This summit marks a significant step in ongoing efforts to combat the impacts of climate change and pave the way towards a sustainable future. Young people are an unlimited source of strength in efforts to create positive change in society. They are bold agents of change, bringing fresh energy and new perspectives to the world of advocacy.
The role of youth in advocacy is not something that can be ignored; this is an important impetus in advancing social issues important to global society.
Alya's participation at COP28 was marked by her active involvement in discussions, dialogue sessions and high-level meetings that discussed the challenges of various aspects related to climate change. Her commitment is to creating sustainable solutions and advocating for climate justice.
Alya had the valuable opportunity to have a substantial dialogue with Kitty van der Heijden, Deputy Executive Director of UNICEF Partnerships. This dialogue focuses on the complex relationship between climate negotiations and their impact on children, emphasizing the irreplaceable role of youth voices in shaping global climate policy.
In addition, Alya was a speaker at the session "Climate Survival Kit for Children," where she shared insights with climate advocates from Australia at the Australian Government Pavilion. This session highlighted the urgent climate challenges faced by children around the world, especially in Indonesia and Australia, highlighting the urgent need to address children as a vulnerable group and involve them in decision-making processes.
“Children in East Asia and the Pacific experience multiple, often overlapping climate-related disasters. "This puts children, the future generation, in a very vulnerable situation," said Alya.
“A more sensitive approach to children is needed in financing and ACE (Action for Climate Empowerment) to provide children with more space for meaningful and inclusive participation in climate-related decision making. "By doing this, climate education for children becomes very urgent," he continued.
Alya's presence at COP28 emphasizes the importance of youth involvement in addressing climate change and its impact on vulnerable populations. The experiences and insights gained during the conference contribute to the ongoing global dialogue on climate action, sustainable development, and the critical role of youth in shaping a resilient future.