As the world faces mounting challenges from climate change, gender inequality and environmental degradation, youth leaders are stepping up to create a brighter, more sustainable future. In Central Asia, a region grappling with water scarcity, extreme weather events, and socio-economic disparities, youth are driving transformative initiatives in climate action, gender equality and sustainable development. From regional climate conferences to grassroots gender initiatives, young leaders are creating waves of change. Empowered by the United Nations and strengthened through regional partnerships, young leaders are redefining priorities for a more inclusive, resilient and collaborative world.
The Regional Conference of Youth on Climate Change (RCOY Central Asia), held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, in September 2024, brought together over 200 youth leaders from Central Asia and beyond. These young voices united across borders to strengthen regional resilience, advocate for urgent climate action, and emphasize the need for gender equality in sustainability efforts. Through workshops, expert-led discussions, and collaborative initiatives, RCOY Central Asia showcased the pivotal role of youth in advancing global sustainability efforts, directly contributing to SDG 13 and SDG 5. An outcome document, which was drafted by the youth, was shared at the Summit of the Future and presented during the 29th Conference of Parties (COP 29) in Baku where the UN Secretary-General personally heard their voices and recommendations.
In addition to climate action, gender equality was a central theme of the conference. Participants advocated for more women and girls to assume leadership roles in environmental protection and climate resilience. Recognizing that young women disproportionately bear the brunt of climate risks, the event empowered them through targeted workshops and discussions designed to dismantle barriers to their participation in the climate movement and the broader societal structures. These efforts align closely with SDG 5, equipping young women with the knowledge, skills and tools to take active, impactful roles in combatting climate change.
In Kyrgyzstan, where gender inequality remains deeply rooted, initiatives like Kyz Duynosu, led by UNFPA and local youth champions, are driving transformative change. By using football and the arts, the program challenges traditional gender norms and provides young girls with opportunities to engage in activities historically associated with men. The initiative also encourages local communities to shift societal attitudes by ensuring that young women are not only included, but empowered to break free from societal expectations. The initiative has begun to reshape perceptions of women's roles in participating communities. However, challenges persist, particularly in rural areas where traditional gender norms remain more entrenched. Despite these obstacles, Kyz Duynosu is making meaningful progress, fostering an environment where girls—especially those from marginalized backgrounds—are increasingly afforded equal opportunities to participate and thrive in all aspects of life.
Youth-driven environmental initiatives, such as the eco-friendly waste management project spearheaded by Rayana and Aruuke with UNICEF’s support, further demonstrate the power of young people in shaping a sustainable future. The two teenage peer trainers from the Girls in Science project and their school-based efforts including implementing waste sorting, recycling programs and community clean-up activities, have inspired neighboring schools to adopt similar sustainable practices. These actions directly contribute to SDG 3 and SDG 13 by addressing improper waste disposal—a pressing environmental and public health concern. Rayana and Aruuke’s initiative demonstrate how local actions, when supported and scaled, can have far-reaching impacts on global sustainability goals. However, challenges remain in extending such programs to remote areas where infrastructure and awareness are limited.
RCOY Central Asia exemplifies the power of regional unity and youth collaboration in addressing global challenges. It brought together youth leaders from the region to share experience and draft a united statement on climate change. This statement submitted to COP29 ensured that the young voices of the region are heard in international climate discussions. The success of the conference in fostering collaboration among youth groups, NGOs and governmental bodies reflects the spirit of SDG 17, underscoring that the future of climate action requires collective efforts.
Despite these achievements, significant challenges remain. Rural youth and young women, in particular, face significant barriers to participating in climate action and gender equality initiatives. Knowledge gaps, cultural resistance and limited resources for youth engagement continue to hinder progress. Ensuring that no one is left behind calls for continued efforts to provide inclusive and equitable access to opportunities for all young people, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.
Youth-driven movements and initiatives across Central Asia and beyond underscore the transformative role of young people in creating a more sustainable and equitable world. From RCOY Central Asia’s focus on climate action and gender equality to grassroots efforts like Kyz Duynosu and the eco-friendly waste management project led by teenage peer trainers, these stories highlight how youth are breaking down traditional norms and driving meaningful change. Through their collective efforts, young people in Central Asia are making tangible contributions toward achieving the SDGs while laying the groundwork for future generations to thrive on a healthy, sustainable planet.
Recognizing the importance of youth participation, the UN Country Team in Kyrgyzstan has established a Youth Advisory Board. This diverse group, which includes representatives from various backgrounds and persons with disabilities, provide critical feedback and advice on implementing the UNSDCF 2023 – 2027. By institutionalizing youth voices in decision-making processes, this initiative ensures that young people are not only participants, but key architects of a more inclusive and resilient future.
United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
Palais des Nations, Geneva
