International Youth Forum 4.0 on SDGs and Human Rights Concludes Successfully in Bangkok
United Nations Conference Centre, Bangkok, October 23, 2024 – The fourth edition of the International Youth Forum (IYF 2024) on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Human Rights concluded on a high note, with over 1,000 youth leaders, activists, and global changemakers gathering at the United Nations Conference Centre (UNCC) in Bangkok. The two-day event, held from October 22-23, 2024, served as a powerful platform for young voices from over 100 countries to address the most pressing global issues and commit to concrete actions.
Themed “Empowering Youth for a Sustainable and Just Future”, IYF 2024 hosted a series of dynamic discussions, keynote addresses, and interactive sessions, focusing on issues like climate justice, social inclusion, human rights, and economic sustainability. The event was organized by the Sustainable Development Council (SDC), co-founded by Dr. Datchanamoorthy Ramu and Mr. Rahul KC, in partnership with UN agencies and global NGOs dedicated to youth empowerment.
Distinguished Guests and Keynote Speakers
The Inaugural Session, held on the morning of October 22, featured addresses from distinguished ambassadors, including
Her Excellency E.A.S. Wijayanthi Edirisinghe,
Ambassador of the Ambassador of Sri Lanka and Permanent Representative to UNESCAP
His Excellency Mr. Pavel Pitel,
Ambassador of the Czech Republic
His Excellency Dr. Sándor Sipos,
Ambassador of the Hungary to Thailand
His Excellency Mr. Patrick Bourne,
Ambassador of Ireland to Thailand
His Excellency Mr. Paolo Dionisi,
Ambassador of Italy to Thailand
Her Excellency Ms. Ilse Lilian Ferrer Silva,
Ambassador of United Mexican States (Mexico) to Thailand
His Excellency Mr. Abderrahim Rahhaly,
Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco to the Thailand
His Excellency Mr. Jonathan Kings,
Ambassador of New Zealand to Thailand His Excellency
His Excellency Mr. Darkey Ephraim Africa,
Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa to Thailand
His Excellency Mr. Lindsay Kiptiness, ‘ndc’(K),
Ambassador of Kenya to Thailand
n their remarks, they highlighted the significance of youth-led initiatives in driving global efforts toward the Sustainable Development Goals, with a specific emphasis on peace, justice, and climate resilience.
Keynote presentations by Dr. Habibah Abdul Rahim, Director of SEAMEO (Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization), and Ms. Kathryn Clarkson, Senior Representative of the International Red Cross, delivered powerful insights on how youth-driven solutions can strengthen social justice and resilience in communities worldwide.
Engaging Panel Discussions
A series of impactful panels followed, including “Innovating for Inclusion: Youth-Driven Solutions for Social Justice”, which addressed methods for fostering inclusivity and equitable access in education and technology. Another highlight was “Digital Empowerment: The Role of Youth in Shaping Future Technologies”, where youth representatives and tech leaders discussed strategies to bridge the digital divide and empower young people in underserved areas.
In the closing session, “Youth Driving Resilience: Leading Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Climate Action for Human Rights and SDGs”, delegates shared solutions for fostering sustainable environmental practices and building resilient communities.
Adoption of the IYF 2024 Resolutions
The Forum’s final segment featured the Adoption of the IYF 4.0 Resolutions, chaired by Dr. Datchanamoorthy Ramu, which outlined specific commitments toward promoting SDG goals in youth advocacy. Delegates proposed actionable steps to accelerate SDGs, emphasizing youth roles in global peace, climate action, and social equity.
Youth Engagement and Workshops
A series of workshops on human rights, digital skills, and environmental sustainability equipped young participants with practical skills to carry their activism forward. Delegates had the chance to exchange ideas, network with thought leaders, and engage in interactive sessions designed to turn ideas into action.
Reflections and Closing Remarks
Dr. Ramu and Mr. Rahul KC delivered heartfelt closing remarks, expressing gratitude to the delegates and partners for their enthusiasm and commitment. They encouraged participants to continue advocating for human rights and sustainability within their local communities, emphasizing that youth leadership is crucial to achieving global change.
A Pledge to Continue the Momentum
The success of IYF 2024 was a testament to the strength of youth collaboration and commitment to a just, sustainable future. The event closed with a collective pledge by attendees to uphold the SDGs and promote human rights globally, paving the way for the next edition in 2025.
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