In early October, the UN in Cyprus welcomed the new group of UN Youth Champions for Environment and Peace, who joined the 4th edition of the programme on the island. The group of 24 young people from across the divide took part in a series of workshops over the last 2 weekends in efforts to equip them to develop their own environmental actions across the island.
Spearheaded by UNFICYP Civil Affairs Section, the programme aims to promote a series of vibrant discussions among young people, and facilitate meetings with other partner UN organizations, such as UNHCR to discuss topics such the impact of environment and climate change on the global stage as well as with a series of Non-Governmental Organizations who are working on different environment issues across the island.
Last Sunday, 14 October, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) in Cyprus, Colin Stewart, joined the group in Ledra Palace Hotel to hear about their proposals and their environmental and peacebuilding projects ideas and actions they will implement in the coming months. For Stewart, these discussions, "serve as an opportunity to bring the ideas to life and identify synergies with other efforts and, the sustainability of proposals, and promote greater intercommunal involvement.”
Also present were Michael Loizides, co-chair of the Technical Committee on Environment and George Zachariah, Good Offices Mission. Myrto Skouroupathi and Vijdan Sengor, alums of the first UN Youth Champions for Environment and Peace initiative, were on hand to mentor, representing their organizations, Cyprus Energy Agency and Green Action Group, as well as Natasa Ioannou from the Friends of the Earth Cyprus.
Daniel Barasa, one of the former champions, also joined one of the sessions named "Human Library" stated: "I hope my story inspires you to keep on your journey of self-discovery and active contribution in peace and environment-related actions, building the future of Cyprus across the divide. This programme isn’t just about participating; it’s about finding your voice or building your voice and using it to bridge gaps, connect communities, and foster a culture of understanding."
For UNFICYP, engaging with young Cypriots plays a vital role to foster meaningful interactions and increase understanding and trust between the communities. We believe that by encouraging youth engagement active participation provides them with the necessary tools to help amplify their voices and inspire a path towards a sustainable future.
The Youth Champions for Environment and Peace programme is implemented by the UN in Cyprus in collaboration with the British Council, through its regional Youth Connect programme.