Small Islands, Big Dreams
Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are a vibrant mosaic of diversity, each thread representing unique cultures and backgrounds yet bound by common resilience and shared challenges. From indigenous communities to bustling modern cities, the people of SIDS embody a rich spectrum of experiences. Amid this diversity lies a collective yearning for global recognition and a platform to voice their unique struggles and aspirations.
As a young activist, I was struck by how often the voices of SIDS youth were overshadowed in international discussions. This motivated me to create a platform that would amplify and empower these voices, leading to the birth of the SIDS Global Children and Youth Action Summit.
Taking on the role of youth coordinator for this event was a formidable task. Ensuring representation from every corner of the SIDS, including UN member countries and non-member territories, posed significant logistical challenges. Some participants undertook exhausting journeys of up to 48 hours to reach Antigua, where the summit was held. Despite these obstacles, the sight of over 90 young people from across SIDS gathered in one room from May 24th to 26th was a remarkable triumph.
For the first time, these young minds convened to tackle the pressing issues their islands face, from climate change to economic development. They shared ideas, forged connections, and built partnerships, laying the groundwork for future advocacy and action.
In the intricate landscape of youth activism within SIDS, the call for recognizing youth rights is paramount. These rights, often marginalized in broader discussions, are essential for fostering inclusive and equitable societies. Youth across SIDS demand access to quality education, healthcare, and meaningful participation in decision-making processes.
Empowering youth requires more than rhetoric; it necessitates tangible action. This means investing in education and skills development, creating avenues for entrepreneurship and innovation, and removing barriers that hinder their full societal participation. It also involves addressing intersecting challenges such as climate change, environmental degradation, social exclusion, and economic disparity.
The willingness of world leaders to engage directly with youth was encouraging, acknowledging their agency and committing to concrete actions. However, this is only the beginning. Sustaining this momentum is crucial. Establishing a SIDS Youth Action Taskforce is essential — a dedicated body to channel youth-driven initiatives and ensure their voices are heard at all levels. Sustainable funding mechanisms are needed to support these projects, fostering innovation and resilience across SIDS regions.
Integration is vital. The outcomes of international events like the Summit of the Future and COP29 must incorporate the insights and aspirations of SIDS youth. Their perspectives are invaluable in shaping policies and actions that impact not only their islands but the global community.
Despite these significant steps, much work remains. SIDS youth deserve more than just a place at the table — they deserve prominence, attention, and resources. Multilateral institutions, governments, and UN agencies must prioritize their engagement, recognizing their immense potential to drive positive change.
In the grand tapestry of global activism, the voices of SIDS youth are a vibrant thread, woven with resilience, passion, and hope. It's time to not just listen but to amplify, empower, and act. The future of our planet depends on it.
