Advocating for Children’s Rights in Climate Action

Environmental crises affect reproductive health, particularly that of children and pregnant women,’ recalled Ansuim Soule, coordinator of the Indian Ocean Climate Network in the Comoros (RCOI-Comoros), at the launch of the Youth Conference on Climate Change (COY21), on December 4th at the Le Retaj Hotel in Moroni.

Under the theme “Advocating for Children’s Rights in Climate Action,” the four-day conference will feature panel discussions aimed at analyzing the vulnerability of small island states and the impacts of climate change on the environment, ecosystems, and socio-economic life. The event coincides with a scientific conference dedicated to the 21st World Conference of Youth (COY), the tenth to be held in the Comoros since 2015.

In his address, Mustapha Ben Messaoud, UNICEF Representative, emphasized the importance of protecting children from climate risks, waterborne diseases, and food insecurity. “Bringing together the government, researchers, young people, and international partners is a powerful symbol recognizing that the future of the Comoros depends on our collective ability to act,” he added.

The role of youth in the fight against climate change is central. Anli Mohamed, Chief of Staff to the Minister of Youth, stressed the need to protect, educate, and provide opportunities for young people to strengthen the country’s resilience. For his part, the Minister of Environment and Tourism, Abubacar Ben Mahamoud, presented this conference as a starting point. The appointment of children’s climate champions, exhibitions, testimonials, and concrete commitments aim to help young generations understand and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

The event culminated in live presentations and talks by participants. High school student Soalihy Anouar Nawal, from Groupe Scolaire Avenir, presented the results of a COP simulation she and her classmates conducted. Their actions included reducing waste, planting trees, conserving water and electricity, and raising awareness among families. “Even as children, we can achieve great things to protect our planet,” she stated.