UNICEF empowers young Jordanian activists participating at COP28

The seven young Jordanian climate leaders, supported by UNICEF’s Sawn programme, emphasised that their innovative ideas and active voices are essential to accelerate progress in combating climate change. 

The Sawn programme, an initiative of UNICEF Jordan in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Youth and Generations For Peace, aims to engage young people from all over Jordan. The programme empowers youth to act on environmental issues and equips them with the necessary skills to lead climate action and advocate for a sustainable future.

In a recent interview with The Jordan Times, Rahaf Abu Mayyaleh, 21, a climate leader from Swan, underscored UNICEF’s crucial role in building youth capacity for sustainable environmental and climate action.

“The COP28 experience allowed us, as young activists, to represent Jordan's position on climate change issues,” according to Abu Mayyaleh. She also said that COP28 is considered “the kitchen for climate policies”, emphasising that their presence as young Jordanian climate activists helps communicate the challenges Jordan faces due to climate change to the world. 

She also said that she had the opportunity to participate in several closed meetings with influential figures and decision-makers, including Prime Minister Bisher Khasawneh.

Shima Abulobbad, 23, another participant a COP28, told The Jordan Times that “climate change has a significant impact on young generations, As young people at the forefront of these changes, our presence at global meetings is crucial".

She also said that her experience at COP28 provided her with opportunities to build networks and engage in discussions and debates about countries’ climate efforts and commitments. 

Anwar Nizami, 26, said that participating in COP28 enables youth to be part of the decision-making process, noting that “During COP28, we were able to leave a distinct Jordanian youth imprint on the world”.

The COP28 UN Climate Change Conference acknowledged the need to transition away from fossil fuels and stressed the importance of global collaboration to address global challenges. The conference also focused on delivering climate justice and addressing the root cause of the climate crisis.