Youth, Leaders Unite for Sustainable Future Initiative

• UNITAR and the United Co-Creation Lab co-organized "Co-Creation for a Sustainable Future: Empowering Youth in Global Dialogue" on 20 September 2024 as a side event to the United Nations General Assembly.
• The event was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark - Permanent Mission of Denmark to the UN in New York, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility of the Republic of Ecuador.
• Youth leaders and global policymakers came together to discuss the potential of co-creation in shaping an inclusive and sustainable future, with a focus on digital technologies and youth empowerment.

30 September 2024, New York, USA - In a unique youth-focused event, UNITAR and the United Co-Creation Lab hosted a side event during the United Nations General Assembly to explore how co-creation between youth and global leaders can foster sustainable development and inclusive societies. This event, "Co-Creation for a Sustainable Future: Empowering Youth in Global Dialogue", marked the official launch of the United Co-Creation Lab, an initiative dedicated to bridging the generational gap and bringing young voices into decision-making processes.

Held on 20 September 2024, the event brought together young advocates, policymakers and experts to discuss practical approaches for integrating youth perspectives into global governance and shaping a more inclusive future.

Co-creation allows us to bring young people to the table as equal partners in shaping the future. By fostering collaboration between generations, we can create inclusive, innovative solutions that address global challenges. Youth are not just stakeholders; they are change-makers." -Ms. Charlotte Sahl-Madsen, President of United Co-Creation Lab

The event was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark - Permanent Mission of Denmark to the UN in New York and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility of the Republic of Ecuador.

The launch of the United Co-Creation Lab is a milestone in engaging young people in global decision-making. Throughout the event, the focus remained on empowering youth to take an active role in global governance. Discussions emphasized how digital technologies can bridge the generational gap, creating spaces where youth can work alongside seasoned leaders to craft solutions for sustainable peace and prosperity.

Youth are not just future leaders - they are leaders now, and we must continue to engage with them to build an inclusive, resilient future." -UNITAR Executive Director Mr. Nikhil Seth.

The event also explored potential challenges to co-creation, such as the digital divide, algorithmic biases, and the need for systemic change. With the input of global youth leaders, the discussion moved beyond theoretical concepts to actionable steps for overcoming barriers and ensuring meaningful participation for all.

Speakers included:

• Ambassador Mr Erik Laursen of Denmark
• Ms Sariha Moya, Minister of National Plantification of Ecuador
• Mr Sebastiaan Aleman, Youth Advisory Board Member of United Co-Creation Lab
• Mayor Mr Philippe Rio of Gringy, France
• Ms Emma Benameur of Villars Institute

They discussed practical ways co-creation can thrive in global diplomacy, highlighting successful initiatives where youth participation has shaped outcomes at both local and international levels.

Participants expressed their commitment to expanding co-creation, stressing the importance of continued collaboration between generations and across borders. The shared goal remains clear: fostering a global culture of inclusivity and sustainability through dialogue and digital cooperation.