Summit of the Future (SoTF) 

At a pivotal moment in history, the Summit of the Future (SoTF) stands at the crossroads of unprecedented challenges and opportunities as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformative change. The Summit comes at a critical juncture where climate change, technological advancements, and socio-economic inequalities are reshaping our world at an accelerated pace. The SoTF is an opportunity to redirect our course towards a more effective and equitable future. It should address current and future global challenges, renew trust and solidarity, revitalize multilateralism, forge a new, 

more inclusive and effective approach to global governance, with a focus on sustainable development, peace, and security. 

This Summit introduces and agrees on the groundbreaking Pact for the Future, a concise, action-oriented outcome document, developed by consensus through intergovernmental negotiations and endorsed by Heads of States. The Pact should be an inter-governmentally negotiated document with chapters on sustainable development, international peace and security, science and technology, youth and future generations, and transforming global governance.  The Summit should reaffirm essential commitments like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the UN Charter while tackling both current and future issues, strengthen global cooperation, renew trust and solidarity strengthening global cooperation. 

Youth, United Nation, and Key Reforms 

The decisions made today will have far-reaching consequences for generations to come. It is imperative that we include the voices of the youth in these discussions, as they bring fresh perspectives, innovative solutions, and an unwavering commitment to a sustainable future. There are about 1.2 billion young people aged 15-24, making up 16% of the global population. By 2030, this will rise to nearly 1.3 billion. With 1.8 billion people aged 10-24, this is the largest generation of youth in history. Their involvement in global decision-making, like at the Summit of the Future, is vital for a sustainable and equitable future. The Pact also focuses on digital cooperation to bridge the digital divide, ensuring youth access to technology for education, employment, and social inclusion. 

Young people are not just passive recipients of the future; they are active architects of it. Young leaders are proving that age is no barrier to making a significant impact. In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, the youth are uniquely positioned to leverage these tools for positive change. The Summit of the Future must prioritize digital literacy and ensure that young people have the skills and resources needed to navigate and shape the digital landscape. 

The appointment of Dr. Felipe Paullier from Uruguay in October 2023 by the United Nation as the first-ever Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs at the United Nations, making him the youngest senior appointee in the organization’s history at the age of 32, symbolizes a shift towards a more inclusive and representative UN. By appointing a young leader to such a high-ranking position, the UN is sending a powerful message about the importance of youth involvement in global governance. 

Key Reforms at the United Nations 

To truly amplify youth voices, the Summit of the Future should play a key role in establishing Regional Youth Advisory Councils, set global standards for youth engagement, and invest in youth-centric research. Inclusivity is key, ensuring marginalized communities from the Global South are heard. 

The UN should empower the next generation to actively participate in shaping their future ensuring these standards are adopted by all UN member states is another important step. By implementing these reforms, the UN can ensure that young people have a meaningful voice in shaping the policies and decisions that affect their future. 

In conclusion, the Summit of the Future is not just about envisioning a better world; it is about taking concrete steps to build it. By empowering the youth and ensuring their active participation, we can create a future that is not only sustainable but also inclusive and equitable for all. 

The Summit of the Future is a critical moment for shaping a sustainable and equitable future. The Pact for the Future has the potential to drive significant progress and ensure a better world for all. This global summit is more than a convergence of ideas; it is a clarion Call to Action for leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to invest in youth empowerment and to create spaces where young voices can be heard and heeded. 

Bijaya Pokharel 

Executive Director