PAKISTAN / ENGLAND – The Commonwealth Secretary-General announced three groundbreaking initiatives aimed at enhancing youth engagement in development and decision-making processes during a recent visit to Pakistan from July 28 to August 2, 2024.
These initiatives align with mandates established during the 2023 Commonwealth Youth Ministers Meeting, which is currently chaired by Pakistan.
The first initiative, the Commonwealth Asia Youth Alliance, will establish its Secretariat in Pakistan. This alliance seeks to unite national youth councils from eight Commonwealth Asian nations, offering a robust platform for international dialogue, leadership development, and training programs.
The second initiative, the Commonwealth Youth Parliamentarian Forum, is designed to empower young legislators from Commonwealth countries to refine their leadership abilities, share best practices, and elevate their voices on crucial issues impacting their communities.
The third initiative focuses on technology, featuring an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre for Youth that will provide self-paced, Intel-certified training courses aimed at equipping young individuals with essential skills in emerging technological fields.
During the initiative launch, the Commonwealth Secretary-General emphasized:
“With over 60 percent of the Commonwealth’s population under 30, the future is firmly in our youth’s hands. They possess immense creativity and potential but often lack avenues to engage meaningfully in the development of their nations. We are excited that Pakistan, leading the Commonwealth Youth Ministerial Taskforce, is spearheading initiatives to foster positive change and transform the prospects for young people across the Commonwealth.”
Throughout her visit, the secretary-general engaged with key figures including the President, Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and various youth leaders, emphasizing Commonwealth solidarity on the anniversary of the 2022 floods.
Conversations focused on Pakistan’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, strengthening Commonwealth relationships, and advancing collaboration in youth empowerment, climate action, and the rule of law.
While in Islamabad, the secretary-general also launched the ‘Peace at the Crease’ initiative, which harnesses the power of sports to unite youth from diverse backgrounds, promoting core Commonwealth values such as peace and equality.
Additionally, she delivered keynote addresses at major educational institutions on the critical role of youth in addressing climate change and fostering social innovation.
Before concluding her visit, the Secretary-General remarked:
“As a founding member of the Commonwealth, Pakistan plays a pivotal role in our collective efforts. The commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement is urgent, particularly in light of the ongoing challenges stemming from the 2022 floods. We must act decisively. Pakistan’s situation highlights the necessity for climate justice for those severely impacted and emphasizes the importance of a Universal Vulnerability Index.”
