GLF Policy Recommendation 7: Policy makers should make sure that the voices of rural youth are heard in decision maing

Young people are rarely involved in important policy debates in natural resource sectors and, for various reasons, may choose not to work in the rural sector. If young farmers, foresters and fishery managers do not replace aging producers, sustainable future landscapes will be seriously compromised.

Negotiators should:

  • Encourage capacity development and involvement of youth movements within subnational, national and UN processes.

What do you think: Should the role of youth be considered in decision making? And what role can youth play in policy processes – should their involvement be formal or informal? How much weight should be given to their voice and who would select these representatives?