ban ki-moon on youth support

2008-08-19T01:54:00.000-07:00

I will update you on the Copenhagen Climate Change Conference (COP15) once it becomes clearer how to start (or link a current NextGEN circle) a regional network. From the GEN-E General Assembly an Ecovillage presence emerged at COP15 and NextGEN members are already involved.

( http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-08/13/content_9241910.htm)

*UN chief stresses young people's role in combating climate change*

UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
emphasized on Tuesday the importance of young people's role in the
global fight against climate change.

"We will need the spirit of youth in abundance as the world seeks to
embrace cleaner, more sustainable forms of energy, including renewable
resources," Ban said in a message for International Youth Day, which
falls on Tuesday.

With their propensity for spreading new habits and technologies and
adaptability to make low-carbon lifestyles and career choices, young
people are also well placed to contribute to the fight even now, he said.

"Youth should therefore be given a chance to take an active part in
the decision-making of local, national and global levels," Ban said.
"And they can actively support initiatives that will lead to the passage
of far-reaching legislation."

"On this International Youth Day, I urge young people around the
world to invest their energies and bright ideas into shaping a safer,
more sustainable planet," the secretary-general said.

On December 17, 1999, the UN General Assembly endorsed the
resolution made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for
Youth that August 12 be declared International Youth Day.

--
Next Generation of the Global Ecovillage Network
www.nextgen.cc