From Nairobi to Oslo Young people as keys to sustainable development

Key Question Will there be a more sustainable future with youth on board? -48% of the world’s population of today are under 25 years old. -Young people must be recognized as keys to development

Key Question Is this recognized by institutions and decision makers of today?

Do institutions recognize..? Mrs. Anna Tibaijuka Executive Director UN-Habitat “At the United Nations, we most strongly believe that all young people should be given the opportunity to have a greater say in their future and the future of their cities.”

Do institutions recognize..? It does not matter how eager the UN system is on taking on board young people and their opinions - this responsibility ALSO has to be taken out on the local level.

Meet the stereotypes… Nina and William Oslo – Mathare 15 – 16 Both have the right to participate

The Rights of the Child 1.States Parties shall assure to the child who is capable of forming his or her own views the right to express those views freely in all matters affecting the child, the views of the child being given due weight in accordance with the age and maturity of the child. 2. For this purpose, the child shall in particular be provided the opportunity to be heard in any judicial and administrative proceedings affecting the child, either directly, or through a representative or an appropriate body, in a manner consistent with the procedural rules of national law. UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, Article 12

The challenge Equal participation is difficult - and scary… Possible working methods: -Café Dialogue -Project Micro City -Vote with your feet

Planning development

Where to go from here? National law Programmes for municipalities However - all it takes to do this on the local level is -WILL -INTEREST -WORKING METHODS

Guidelines 1) Take young people seriously – or don’t involve them in the process at all. 2) Don’t let Youth NGOs out. 3) Use working methods that are suitable to work with young people.

Final reminder Sustainable development concerns everyone – but the success or failure in achieving it has an even greater impact for young people. We are the ones that will, in the future, have to deal with the mistakes made today.