What we do
Today’s generation of young people is the largest in human history. Nearly half the world’s population- more than 3 billion people-are under the age of 25. Eighty-five per cent of youth live in developing countries.
United Nations. 2004. World Youth Report 2005: Report of the Secretary General
(A/60/61 – E/2005/7), p. 1. New York: United Nations
Approximately one-third of the global population is under the age of 18!
All over the world, children, adolescents and young people are concerned with the increasing threat posed by rising global carbon emissions, the changing climate, water scarcity, environmental degradation and increasing natural disasters. Many are already experiencing some or all of these impacts and are being forced to leave their homes and/or to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances.
International advocacy for children
Our work at the international level is intended to advocate for consideration for and inclusion of the rights and unique needs of children in emerging frameworks, declarations, protocols, work programmes and the like, and likewise to work toward provisions which will support both formal and non-formal education as well as the participation and local actions of children and young people in their communities.
Global challenges impacting the lives of children
The global challenges of water scarcity, climate change and children’s environmental health are largely dealt with by individual countries and are ultimately felt at community-levels. Hands-on/minds-on consultation leads to experiential support to policymakers and programme partners is designed to facilitate development of culturally (and environmentally) appropriate, participatory and inter-sectoral plans for action which take into account the rights and capacities of children and young people to be part of any sustainable solution. Our holistic methodologies are designed to strengthen confidence, motivation and problem-solving abilities in order to uncover the infinite possibilities in what can appear to be a finite and challenging world.
Intergenerational dialogue, 2nd Children's World Water Forum
Our holistic and values-based education programs are for meaningful and lasting change
Intergenerational dialogue and participatory planning supports interpersonal understanding and can often breathe new life and measurable results into previously stagnant policies, projects or programmes. The integration of science, literacy and mathematics with indigenous wisdom and practical environmental action are contextualized within critically urgent issues of very basic human rights, health and development challenges facing many of the Earth’s children.
