Applications Open for UN Youth Delegate Program National Climate Conference

Until July 2, young people across Latvia can apply for the National Conference of the UN Youth Delegate Program titled "When Climate Change is No Longer a Joke". The conference will take place on July 24 in Riga from 9 AM to 6 PM. Prior to the in-person event, two online introductory sessions will be held from July 7 to July 16, where participants, together with experts, will explore climate, energy, economic, and security data in preparation for thematic working groups.

During the conference, youth will discuss the impact of climate change on education, gender equality, the environment, and international security. Working groups will also address potential nuclear energy introduction in Latvia, landmine issues and Baltic Sea security, climate anxiety, and youth engagement in climate matters.

At the conclusion of the conference, participants will draft a resolution on challenges posed by climate change. Organizers note that this document will compile youth opinions, which Latvian UN Youth Delegates can use in international formats.

Young people aged 15 to 30 can apply by filling out an application form. Travel expenses for youth from Latvian regions will be reimbursed. The program has been active in Latvia since 2019.

The article also emphasizes that climate change already affects health, safety, social inequality, food production, and the economy. The World Health Organization reports that between 2000 and 2019, approximately 489,000 heat-related deaths occurred annually worldwide, with a significant portion in Europe. The World Meteorological Organization's 2024 climate report warned that extreme weather events cause major social and economic disruptions. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change concludes that timely action can reduce losses and protect human health, homes, and livelihoods.