TD DESK
NEW YORK: Young Pakistani leader Fsahat ul Hassan addressed the United Nations Eco Soc Youth Forum in New York, highlighting the importance of youth engagement in intergovernmental processes. Speaking on behalf of the Asian Pacific region, Fsahat emphasized that youth participation is crucial for building inclusive, sustainable and peaceful societies.
During his speech, Fsahat stressed the importance of intergovernmental platforms as they provide important opportunities for young people to contribute their perspective and ideas. He urged everyone to acknowledge the role that young people play in shaping the future of the world and the need for them to have a seat at the table in intergovernmental processes and decision-making.
“Leaders of today and tomorrow, it is critical that young people have a seat at the table in intergovernmental processes and decision-making. Their perspectives and ideas of youth are essential to building an equitable and just world,” said Fsahat.
He also acknowledged the progress made in increasing youth participation in intergovernmental platforms, citing the UN youth strategy and the establishment of the UN youth office last year, which will focus on youth participation and engagement across the UN system.
In the Asian Pacific region, Fsahat highlighted several intergovernmental platforms that work with young people to promote their participation and engagement in decision-making processes, including the UN Asia Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development, UN High-Level Political Forum, Association of South East Asian Nations, SAARC, ICYF, and Commonwealth Youth Programs.
Fsahat concluded his speech by urging everyone to support such forums so that youth voices can be heard at decision-making tables. He hopes that the future will see even greater youth engagement in intergovernmental processes, leading to a more inclusive and just world.