My Experiences at the United Nations Civil Society Conference 2024

I recently had the privilege of attending the 2024 UN Civil Society Conference in Nairobi, Kenya. It was an inspiring experience to connect with passionate individuals and organizations from around the world, all dedicated to building a better future.

The conference offered a vibrant space for discussions on a wide range of thematic areas. One session I found particularly impactful focused on Children's Rights and Participation by @Arelys Bellorini . There was a strong call to action to recognize children and young people as active agents of change in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This resonated deeply, and it's encouraging to see growing recognition of their vital role in shaping our future. The session on Children's Rights and Participation was a powerful call to action. Beyond acknowledging children as agents of change under the 2030 Agenda, there was a strong emphasis on establishing clear mechanisms for their voices to be heard at the global policy level.

Here are some specific points that resonated with me:

• Capacity Building:

Discussions explored ways to equip children and young people with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively participate in decision-making processes. This could involve training programs, leadership development initiatives, and creating safe spaces for them to express themselves. Meaningful Representation: This ensures their perspectives are directly represented and considered during discussions on critical issues like climate change, education, and peacebuilding.

 Another session I attended was Funding for Community Action on Sustainable Development by @https://www.linkedin.com/in/olihenman/, Here, the discussions centered on empowering grassroots organizations through increased access to funding. The emphasis on shifting resources towards these groups was crucial, as their work often has a direct and positive impact on communities. Grassroots organizations are often at the forefront of tackling complex issues in their communities. The session emphasized the need for increased funding support to empower them and amplify their impact. The success stories shared were a testament to the tremendous change grassroots organizations are making on the ground. The Funding for Community Action on Sustainable Development session focused on the critical role of grassroots organizations. These local actors are often the first responders to complex issues within their communities, yet they face significant challenges in accessing funding.

Here are some my key takeaways from the session:

• Shifting the Balance:

The discussion emphasized the need to move away from a top-down funding approach and prioritize flexible funding models that empower grassroots organizations to design and implement their own solutions. This requires greater trust and collaboration between donors and local actors.

• Sharing Best Practices:

The session showcased successful examples of grassroots organizations making a significant impact on sustainable development like https://zovu.global/ which brings to light the voices of grassroots organizations around the world.

Beyond these specific sessions, the overall conference atmosphere was one of collaboration and shared purpose. There was a clear sense that civil society can play a critical role in influencing governments and pushing for bold multilateral actions as we approach the upcoming Summit of the Future.

Here are some key takeaways from my experience:

Collaboration between civil society and governments is essential for tackling global challenges.

• Empowering Youth:

Including children and young people in decision-making processes is crucial for a sustainable future.

• Supporting Grassroots:

Increased funding for grassroots organizations is vital to maximize their impact on the ground.

I encourage everyone to learn more about the upcoming Summit of the Future and explore ways to get involved