What's Happening?
Two young South Sudanese delegates, Angeth Ker Deng and Amoko Ronny, are set to attend COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye, with a clear agenda: to demand government action on protecting schools from flooding, ensuring children know where to seek shelter, and involving
them in emergency planning. Their demands stem from a declaration developed by children during a pre-COP31 simulation workshop facilitated by Save the Children South Sudan in Juba. This declaration emphasizes continued access to education, food, clean water, and healthcare during climate disruptions. Angeth, an advocate for girls' rights, highlighted that climate disasters, such as flooding, can force school closures, increasing the risk of early marriage for girls and jeopardizing their future opportunities. Ronny shared personal experiences of how flooding and heatwaves have impacted his community and kept children out of classrooms, stressing the need for effective early warnings that reach children and provide clear information on safety measures.
Why It's Important?
The advocacy of these young delegates underscores the critical need for child-centric approaches in disaster preparedness and climate change adaptation, particularly in vulnerable regions. Their demands highlight the direct impact of climate change on education, food security, and the overall well-being of children, emphasizing that these are not just environmental issues but fundamental human rights concerns. By calling for children's involvement in developing flood response plans, they are promoting a more inclusive and effective strategy, recognizing that those experiencing the reality of climate disasters are best positioned to advocate for solutions. This initiative could serve as a model for other nations facing similar climate challenges, demonstrating the value of youth engagement in policy-making and disaster risk reduction.
What's Next?
Angeth Ker Deng and Amoko Ronny will present their demands at the United Nations climate talks (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye. They are calling for greater funding to help communities prepare for and recover from disasters. Ronny also highlighted the struggle to secure funding and partners for local initiatives, such as teaching children about environmental cleanliness, urging officials to work directly with communities. Angeth further called on South Sudan's government to press high-emitting countries to take responsibility for their contribution to climate change. The delegates also urged news organizations to follow up on commitments made at COP31 to ensure leaders' promises translate into action.
Beyond the Headlines
The participation of young delegates like Angeth and Ronny at international climate conferences signifies a growing recognition of the importance of youth voices in global policy discussions. Their advocacy transcends typical political discourse by bringing a deeply personal and immediate perspective to the impacts of climate change. This approach challenges traditional top-down decision-making processes, advocating for a more grassroots, community-led approach to climate resilience. The emphasis on protecting girls' education from the consequences of climate disasters also highlights the intersectionality of climate change with gender equality and social justice, revealing how environmental crises can exacerbate existing societal vulnerabilities and inequalities.
