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Young Climate Negotiators: Burkina Faso's New Delegates
In an era where climate change presents a formidable challenge to nations worldwide, empowering young people to engage actively in climate action has never been more critical. Recognizing this urgency, the National Coordination of Youth for the Environment and Climate (CONAJEC) and OXFAM Burkina, under the auspices of the “African Activists for Climate Justice (AACJ)” project, have launched the National “Youth Delegates” program. This initiative, backed by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Sanitation, aims to nurture a new generation of climate negotiators in Burkina Faso.
A Strategic Investment in Youth
The 2023 edition of the program has been particularly noteworthy. It aimed to select ten young Burkinabè—five girls and five boys—who embarked on a transformative journey as climate delegates and negotiators. These young leaders underwent rigorous training, including online courses and a 10-day in-person academy for young climate negotiators. The selected participants now have the opportunity to attend key climate events such as the Local COY Burkina Faso, COY 18, and COP 28 in Dubai, under the mentorship of experienced negotiator coaches, contingent upon available resources.
Building Capacity for Climate Leadership
The primary objective of this program is to bolster the technical and operational capabilities of the ten chosen young negotiators. Selection criteria were stringent, focusing on age, skillset, patriotic commitment, and interest in the year’s selected themes. This thorough vetting ensures that the program nurtures a pool of young leaders ready to strengthen national delegations and contribute to the development of robust climate policies.
Training the Next Generation
From July 29 to August 2, 2024, the National Academy of Training for Young Negotiators brought together these ten promising individuals in Tintilou. This intensive program was designed to enhance their negotiation skills, equipping them to represent Burkina Faso effectively at future COPs. The academy provided a comprehensive curriculum, blending theoretical knowledge with practical negotiation exercises, fostering a deep understanding of the complexities of international climate negotiations
The training sessions at the National Academy were meticulously structured to cover a wide range of topics essential for effective climate negotiation. Participants delved into the nuances of international climate policies, understanding the intricacies of agreements like the Paris Agreement and their implications for Burkina Faso. Through role-playing and simulation exercises, these young negotiators practiced real-world negotiation scenarios, honing their skills in diplomacy, strategic communication, and consensus-building.
One of the unique aspects of the training was its focus on bridging local climate issues with the global climate discourse. Participants were trained to articulate Burkina Faso’s specific challenges and priorities within the broader context of international climate negotiations. This approach ensures that these young leaders can advocate effectively for their country’s interests while contributing to global climate solutions.
As these young negotiators prepare to participate in upcoming international forums like COP 29 in Azerbaijan, their training positions them as crucial voices in the global climate discourse. The skills and knowledge they have acquired will enable them to engage with international peers, policymakers, and climate activists, bringing a fresh and informed perspective to the negotiation table.
The Road to COP 29
Looking ahead to COP 29 in Azerbaijan, which is slated to address critical issues such as climate finance, adaptation strategies, and loss and damage mechanisms, the involvement of these young negotiators from Burkina Faso is timely and essential. Their participation will not only amplify the voices of youth but also highlight the urgent needs and innovative solutions from one of the most climate-vulnerable regions in the world.
Why This Initiative Matters
The importance of this initiative cannot be overstated. As the world grapples with the pressing need to address climate change, young people are increasingly recognized as vital agents of change. They bring fresh perspectives, innovative solutions,
The National “Youth Delegates” program exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to climate leadership in Burkina Faso. By equipping young people with the skills to negotiate and advocate for their country on the international stage. This initiative is demonstrating that with the right support and training, the youth of Burkina Faso can rise to meet the challenges of climate change and drive meaningful progress for their country and the world.