Shaping Tomorrow’s Forestry Leaders (UNFF Delegation Report): Youth Perspectives and Lessons from The 18th United Nations Forum and Forests Session 2023

Introduction

The UN Forum on Forests is a vital commission of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) with a diverse membership from around the globe. Since its inception in 2000, this forum has achieved remarkable milestones that shaped the future of sustainable forests, including the UN Forest Instrument in 2007, the Global Forest Financing Facilitation Network (GFFFN) in 2015, and spearheaded the adoption of the visionary UN Strategic Plan for Forests 2030 in 2017. While significant milestones have been achieved, many challenges and issues persist, demanding urgent attention and resolution.

IFSA, representing the Major Group Children and Youth, is thrilled to be a valuable participant in the 18th UNFF session. Over the past few years, we have encountered numerous hurdles in implementing the UN Strategic Plan for Forests 2030 and the Global Forest Goals. However, these challenges have taught us the importance of adaptability in dynamic circumstances. We have taken transformative actions to address these issues. Moreover, despite the disruptive impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the progress of the UN Strategic Plan for Forests, we (young generations) remain resolute and driven. The adversity caused by the pandemic has only strengthened our resolve to tackle the challenges at hand actively.

Highlights of Achievements and Lessons Learned

Strong delegation: A total of nine nations, ensuring gender parity, and a greater representation of individuals from the global south.

This year, a remarkable transformation in the youth and children major group’s delegation is realized. It has grown stronger and more diverse, presenting a staunch force of twelve students from Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Nepal, Germany, Sweden, Gambia, Brazil, and Chile. Including more students from the global south and gender balance serves as a resounding testament to youths’ unwavering passion and determination to attend this meeting and champion our voices, despite the countless hurdles and constraints we face. Our eagerness knows no bounds as we strive to make a resounding impact and leave an indelible mark on the world stage.

Determination to create a meaningful impact: We delivered three statements addressing the critical agenda and initiated MG side events for transformative action.

Despite various challenges, our collective presence garnered substantial recognition at the forum. Driven by the determination to create a meaningful impact, we presented three statements addressing critical agenda items. We strongly urge the forum to duly acknowledge and consider the perspectives and concerns of marginalized communities, including indigenous people, women, farmers, and the younger generations. Additionally, we initiated an engaging Major Group side event, which served as a beacon for transformative action. This event drew the participation of esteemed figures, including the President of IUFRO and the Vice Chair of the 18th UNFF Session.

Engaging with global forestry stakeholders and conveying our expectations from this year’s UNFF session.

By actively engaging with delegates from member states, the MG Farmer, regional and sub-regional organizations, and CPF members, we made the most of every opportunity to expand our knowledge and perspectives on forestry. These interactions enabled us to enhance our understanding of the dedication and endeavors of certain member states in sustainable forest management. Additionally, we had the privilege of being interviewed by UN social media. Through this platform, we conveyed our expectations for the meeting and emphasized the importance of all pertinent stakeholders stepping up their commitment to sustainable forest management.

The First Experience for All Youth Delegates to the 18th UNFF Session.

The twelve individuals are engaging in this session for the first time, whereas Binsar and Agustin have prior experience in UN meetings. However, this experience has provided valuable lessons for all the delegates, offering opportunities to interact with member-state representatives, gain new perspectives on the forestry policy process, and develop a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms at play within UN meetings, specifically concerning forestry.

More stories and moving forward

Our report encompasses a compilation of knowledge acquired from twelve delegates, reflecting our diverse experiences. Our contributions offer valuable insight, stimulating perspectives, and invaluable lessons from the event. The report presents a comprehension of the session, including key takeaways from youth perspectives, anticipation for upcoming sessions, personal narratives that underscore the dedication to attending such prestigious forestry events, statements on critical agenda, active engagement on social media platforms, and a fun moment and excitement experienced throughout the event.

We are passionately driven to share this report with the world, especially the young generation and relevant actors, as our primary goal is to captivate their attention. We seek to instill a deep appreciation for our collective efforts that can have a powerful impact. We aim to inspire a transformative movement revitalizing sustainable forest management practices. This movement will be pivotal in preserving our precious forests for future generations.

Check our full report here.

Check our video report here.

And follow our social media on instagram and twitter @unff_youth 

Prepared by Binsar Sihotang and supported by all delegates (Agustin, Benjamin, Erlita, Emilia, Herman, Huiying, Júlia, Karin, Kumba, Max, and Sandesh)