In the realm of advocacy, much remains to be done to engage communities in advancing and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Understanding the link between the SDGs and the Pact for the Future is crucial, as it highlights how individuals can contribute to its realization. Neglecting future generations has direct repercussions on the present, making us accountable for our inaction.
Today, young people worldwide face shared challenges, such as limited access to decent employment, gaps in information, and underrepresentation. These are pressing issues that demand collective action.



On December 22, 2024, we gathered to honor the Uganda-African United Nations Youth Fellows of the 2024 cohort. This group actively participated in grassroots meetings and development discussions, focusing on identifying challenges impacting youth and exploring viable solutions. Among the recurring concerns were unemployment, underrepresentation in United Nations processes, and insecurity faced by young people, particularly in regions like Ethiopia, Sudan, and South Sudan.
The efforts of these fellows greatly enriched the advocacy work of the twelve Youth Representatives during the UN General Assembly. In his closing remarks, the Secretary-General encouraged the fellows to view this platform as a springboard for personal growth. He emphasized the power of networking, urging them to leverage the connections they had built to advance their careers and foster intergenerational solidarity. Successful individuals often credit their achievements to meaningful networks, which facilitate the sharing of knowledge and wisdom while driving impactful change.

Young people play a pivotal role in raising awareness and advancing global agendas such as the SDGs and the Pact for the Future. Chapter IV of the Pact emphasizes youth action, particularly in implementing Actions 34, 36, and 37. As we motivate the younger generation, it is essential to prioritize inclusivity and intergenerational collaboration in all processes.
Today’s world is fraught with challenges, including civil wars and climate change, which transcend geographical boundaries. These issues demand urgent, realistic actions with future generations in mind. Strengthening multilateralism is critical to achieving sustainable progress.



A heartfelt appreciation goes out to all the youth representatives across six countries for their extraordinary efforts in raising awareness and disseminating knowledge about global challenges and solutions at the grassroots level. Truly, we embody the principle of leaving no one behind.
By Kalema Andrew Arnold