If we’re to live up to our own time,
Then victory won’t lie in the blade,
But all the bridges we’ve made.
That is the promise to glade.

Amanda Gorman, National Youth Poet Laureate (USA)

In just a matter of days, our world has awoken to a new reality in Europe, with consequences that reverberate across the globe. The reality of war, suffering, displacement of families, and disregard for human life and dignity took hold almost overnight. We look in disbelief at how millions are forced to flee their homes, how civilian buildings are reduced to rubble, and how discrimination takes root in its ugliest forms. And yet, in the face of all this suffering, we have also been profoundly inspired by the global solidarity shown to those affected by the war, including through the  YMCA.

Despite a prolonged period of unprecedented peace around the world, several nations have suffered war in the past decades. We have witnessed  horrible conflicts in Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Yemen, and countless other regions. Each of these conflicts produced horrendous suffering, and destroyed the lives and livelihoods of millions. To this suffering, we now add Ukraine, a country of 44 million people, which is now fighting for its survival as an independent nation guided by  the principle that a sovereign people can choose its own destiny.

Young people are disproportionate victims of war during and long after the conflict. Young people are the first to be drafted to fight,  and are often forced into the direct line of fire, putting their lives in grave danger. Young people see their future blur into uncertainty, as they are forced to flee their homes and start over in a new country. They are often separated from their families, as some go to fight and others become refugees. It is heart-breaking that young people see their education and careers disrupted and their lives changed in profound ways, with consequences that last a lifetime.

And yet even in the face of this heavy suffering, not all people are treated equally, and not all benefit from the simple idea that each of us deserves to be treated with dignity. In the midst of the violence we witness blatant discrimination and hostility towards refugees and citizens of African and Middle-Eastern descent, while fleeing to the border trying to protect themselves from bombs and bullets, and also in some cases, after they have crossed the border simply because of the colour of their skin or because of their religion.

Human dignity must be our guide. If peace is to prevail in the world, we must hold sacred the protection of human dignity and human rights, the regard for human life, and respect for one another. The long period of relative peace in the world that started in 1945 might have caused  many to believe that human rights and dignity are values upheld by most and we do not have to fight fiercely for them.

But now – more than ever in recent history – we must remind ourselves and those around us that:

All humans are born free and equal in dignity and rights.
War is never a solution to any problem.
Everyone should be treated with dignity and their voice should be heard.

The global response to the atrocities that are happening in Ukraine has been inspiring and astonishing, both at a governmental and individual level. At the governmental level, 141 countries voted for a resolution at the United Nations General Assembly to condemn war and request an immediate ceasefire, calling for the guns to be silenced. And at an individual level, the depth of solidarity with the victims of war has been astounding. Volunteers rushed to the borders to support refugees, donations began flowing from all corners of the world, social media buzzes with continuous support, and so much more.

In its longstanding tradition of supporting communities wherever there is an essential need, the YMCA has stepped up since Day 1 at all levels. On behalf of the global YMCA community, we wish to extend our deep gratitude and thanks to each YMCA staff member and volunteer who has committed to community service during this difficult time, as well as each individual and institutional donor who contributed to our fundraising efforts worldwide. They, together with the  volunteers and teams from numerous civil society organisations, who are working day and night on the ground or remotely to meet the growing needs, are the everyday heroes that inspire us all. Find out more about the role of the YMCA in the Ukraine crisis.

In the YMCA “we believe in the power of young people and communities to promote and advance justice, peace, equity and human rights for all”. These words from our Vision 2030 Strategy now resonate more than ever, strengthening our resolve to advance these goals in the face of new challenges for our world. 

Considering the profound effects on human life that the conflict in Ukraine has and the risks of escalation, the World YMCA calls on leaders worldwide to:

1. Ensure humanitarian corridors that are free of violence to enable refugees to get away from harm’s way;
2. Ensure the protection of civil society and humanitarian workers in all conflict areas, so that basic services can be provided to people as needed;
3. Ensure the protection of all refugees and the use of non-discriminatory practices and policies;
4. Prevent discrimination against non-Ukrainian refugees and ensure the safety and protection of all individuals that are in harm’s way;
5. Preserve, protect and defend human dignity in each decision that affects people on the ground.

At the same time, we salute all the efforts taken worldwide to work for peace in Ukraine and to silence guns. We underline the absolute urgency of this task.

Our world and our humanity have been tested in ways unimaginable even mere days ago. But in the face of adversity, we find our strength in unity. We find our resolve in hope. We find our humanity in solidarity. We have only one Planet. Let’s all work together to preserve harmony and peace.

“Finally, sisters and brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” – Corinthians 13:11

• Download our statement (PDF – 658 KB)

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The world’s oldest and largest youth organization will showcase six youth-led solutions on climate action from across the globe, inside the Green Zone on Friday November 12.

Specially commissioned for COP26, the global film premiere of Creating Youth-Led Solutions will be held at the Glasgow IMAX cinema at 15:30 (GMT, UK time), and hosted by YMCA Scotland. The documentary-style film tells the story of how young leaders on each continent are innovating local solutions to the climate crisis, and will be followed by a panel discussion with YMCA Young Ambassadors Rodrigo Puntriano Mendoza (Peru), Rebecca Nkunde (Zambia), Diana Lopera (Hawaii, USA) and Ylli Alija (Kosovo) from the film.

Carlos Sanvee, Secretary General of World YMCA, said: “The world is falling short on its commitments to people and planet, inaction is driving injustice, and complacency is perpetuating marginalisation. But – the world’s young people have the answers, the tenacity, and the drive to implement solutions.

“They aren’t just changemakers-in-waiting, they are leading the charge right at this very moment in every corner of the world, driving innovation, dialogue and education around the world’s biggest challenge – the climate crisis.”

Two years ago, YMCA launched the Youth-Led Solutions initiative to mentor, train and support the development of young people’s solutions to issues of climate justice, employment and mental health. In October 2020, it held its first Summit on climate action, subsequently funding 35 new youth-led initiatives around the world. Friday’s very special film premiere will highlight just some of these projects, their journey so far, and the work that young people are doing to be ambassadors for climate action.

So, join YMCA for a journey across the world as we hear from young people installing vermicomposting and tackling electronic waste in Hawaii; see their work in Peru where addressing poor sanitation and inorganic waste has helped to address income inequity; witness a cross-cultural collaboration between young people in Albay, Philippines and Michigan (USA) to train a new generation of eco-leaders; learn about community-led reforestation in the Western Balkan forests of Kosovo; watch as young people create micro-green spaces across Ramallah, Palestine; and discover how curriculum-based climate art projects are utilising up-cycled waste in schools in Zambia.

Kerry Reilly, CEO of YMCA Scotland, said: “YMCA as a global movement is deepening its commitment to young people leading global change, and we at YMCA Scotland are excited and honoured to be hosting the premier and discussion panel for this innovative film at such a pivotal time and place.

“YMCA’s Youth-Led Solutions Initiative is elevating young leaders to tackle the issues head-on. It’s connecting like-minded individuals from around the world to build the skills and solutions necessary to take action in their communities, and this film is a fitting example of just that. Listen to their stories and be inspired.”

In addition to YMCA’s film premiere, more than 20 young delegates from Canada, England & Wales, Germany, Ghana, Ireland, Kosovo, Norway, Palestine, Peru, Romania, Scotland, USA and Zambia and will be taking part in debates inside the COP26 Blue Zone. Key figures from YMCA’s global leadership will also be joining a programme of COP26 side-events, including a special collaboration with One Young World and Extreme International.

The film screening is currently sold out, but sign up now to be reminded when the livestream starts here.

For more information on YMCA’s involvement at COP26, including access to events and daily blogs from delegates, please visit: https://ymca.int/cop26/ or follow @WorldYMCA / #YMCACOP26. 

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For more information and a list of spokespeople, or to make interview requests, please contact Aimee Reilly on aimee.reilly@ymca.org.uk / +44 7863 620084.

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Join YMCA for an evening of youth-led climate discovery as part of an exclusive YMCA film screening and COP26 special performance from Rhys Lewis

YMCA is delighted to announce a special in-person only event taking place on Tuesday November 9 in the heart of Glasgow, offering a unique chance to preview their ground-breaking film Creating Youth-Led Solutions.

Specially commissioned for COP26, the documentary-style film will premiere as a sold-out event and live stream as part of the official Green Zone programme on November 12, hosted by YMCA Scotland. However, a select audience will be able to attend Tuesday’s advanced screening, followed by a very special youth-led discussion and performance with singer-songwriter Rhys Lewis.

Creating Youth-Led Solutions tells the story of how young leaders on each continent are innovating local solutions to the climate crisis, and highlights the importance and inspiration of youth voices in the battle to save our planet. 

So, join YMCA for a journey across the world as we hear from young people installing vermicomposting and tackling electronic waste in Hawaii; see their work in Peru where addressing poor sanitation and inorganic waste has led to addressing income inequity; witness a cross-cultural collaboration between young people in Albay, Philippines and Michigan (USA) to train a new generation of eco-leaders; learn about community-led reforestation in the Western Balkan forests of Kosovo; watch as young people create micro-green spaces across Ramallah, Palestine; and discover how curriculum-based climate art projects are utilising up-cycled waste in schools in Zambia.

After the screening, Rhys Lewis will be joined in conversation alongside YMCA Ambassadors from across the world featured in the documentary, before a unique COP26 special live performance.

Rhys said: ”I’ve long been passionate about climate action and believe the music industry can do more to engage people in the crisis we are facing. Artists and labels also need to look at how we can reduce our carbon footprint as an industry.”

“The pandemic has shown us just how adaptive and creative we can be in adversity; we should see this emergency as a similar opportunity to inspire positive change for the sake of our planet. The last track on my debut album, a song called  ‘What Wild Things Were’, was inspired by David Wallace-Wells’ book ‘The Uninhabitable Earth’. It’s scary to imagine the world we’ll be living in if we don’t act now, so it’s vital that we turn our good intentions into meaningful action. COP26 is the moment to change our future.”

“Through its engagement with young people around the world, YMCA is making a huge and positive impact on the climate crisis. I’m proud to help amplify the inspiring work they do as a community every day.”

In addition to YMCA’s film premier and advanced screening, more than 20 young delegates from Germany, Ghana, Ireland, Kosovo, Palestine, Peru, Romania, Norway, Scotland, USA, Canada, Zambia and England & Wales will be taking part in debates inside the COP26 Blue Zone. Key figures from YMCA’s global leadership will also be joining a programme of COP26 side-events, including a special collaboration with One Young World and Extreme International.

To register for the advanced screening and performance from Rhys Lewis on November 9 (7pm, GMT) at Extreme International’s The Extreme Hangout at Glasgow’s iconic Ferry venue, head to its website.

Alternatively, to be reminded of the global premier’s livestream on November 12 (3:30pm, GMT), sign up here.

For more information on YMCA’s involvement at COP26, including access to events and daily blogs from delegates, please visit: https://ymca.int/cop26/ or follow @WorldYMCA / #YMCACOP26. 

– ENDS –

For more information and a list of spokespeople, or to make interview requests, please contact Aimee Reilly on aimee.reilly@ymca.org.uk / +447863 620084.

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Ahead of the event, the World YMCA joins more than 100 organisations, such as WWF, Save the Children, World Vision, and CARE International, in calling on governments to strengthen the current draft global biodiversity agreement.

This unprecedented call to action is launched on 7 September 2021 at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conservation Congress in Marseille, France.

“Wherever I look in the global YMCA Movement, I see that – whatever challenges they face – it’s in young people’s nature to be positive. That’s just one of the reasons why young people embrace the quest for a ‘nature-positive’ world by 2030. The natural world is theirs to inherit. We fully support this call to action, demanding of governments a Global Biodiversity Framework that is worthy of its name.”
Carlos Madjri Sanvee, Secretary General, World YMCA

• Read the joint statement (PDF)

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15% of the world’s population – some 1.2 billion people – are aged between 15 to 29.  On International Youth Day we call on the world to acknowledge that from Covid-19 to Tokyo 2020, young people offer solutions and leadership.

As leaders of the world’s six largest youth organisations, our movements collectively reach 250 million young people every year. Our networks of national organisations, local chapters, volunteers and young changemakers tell us that now is the time for young people finally to be heard. They need to be recognised as part of the solution to the world’s biggest challenges – from climate change, to gender inequality, to the impact of Covid.

Here are three reasons why this International Youth Day makes us call for action.

First, the world gets ever younger. 10 billion more people are yet to be born in this Century. This exponential growth will continue to be uneven, with concentration in more populous and less developed countries resulting in more mouths to feed, more young people to educate, and more jobs to provide.

Second, predicting the future may be a flawed exercise when the present crisis of a fast-warming planet requires immediate action on behalf of young people. Greta Thunberg spoke for millions of her peers when she told the UN two years ago that, mired in climate inertia, global leaders had stolen not just her childhood, but her dreams for her future.

Third, we believe that this is young people’s kairos: their moment, their time. The Covid pandemic has accelerated and heightened that moment, magnifying both crisis and opportunity.

The Covid crisis is clear enough. The virus has highlighted the inequity and vulnerability of global society: it may affect us all, but it discriminates to the extent that many countries and many groups of people are less equipped to deal with it.

Covid has disproportionately affected young people, and especially young girls and women. It has disrupted their education, their training, their jobs, their relationships, their mental health. They knew all these challenges prior to the pandemic, and then they became its pariahs: largely ignored in policy response, blamed for the spread of Covid, and increasingly left to their own devices.

We have seen how Covid has made the vulnerable even more vulnerable. Vaccine inequity is a fact. Gender and domestic based violence have increased significantly, as well as teenage marriage of young girls in Africa and parts of Asia.

Yet this moment also brings a real opportunity for young people.

The untold story of Covid-19 is that young people are the solution, not the problem. At the end of last year, we ‘Big Six’ youth organisations came together – with the backing of the United Nations Foundation and the World Health Organization – in a Global Youth Mobilization to highlight and promote young people, their ideas and their innovative solutions to the impact of the virus and the many community challenges that have come with it.

What we have seen is that – given a platform, agency and inter-generational accompaniment – young people can become partners in providing solutions across communities and countries. They are  addressing mental and physical health, mitigating the impact of disruption to education, training in digital skills, improving employability through support to livelihoods and financial literacy, providing vocational training and skills, raising awareness on vaccines and other forms of Covid prevention.

So on International Youth Day we ask how we can make this great moment of opportunity for young people official.

We are calling on Governments, UN agencies, corporations and civil society to put young people at the centre of a great post-Covid policy reset.

Governments must strengthen their youth policies and put money behind them. They must commit to having children and young people from diverse backgrounds playing a direct role in policy development and decision-making. They must ensure equal access to healthcare for children and young people, whatever their status. They must invest in user-friendly, low-cost systems to ensure children and young people have digital access to education, both formal and informal – within school and without. They must commit to upskilling and reskilling to future-proof careers. In all these commitments, they must pledge to pay even greater attention to girls and young women.

The intergovernmental world must remain fully behind this. The UN, the EU, the African Union and the Commonwealth all recognise the need for a coordinated effort to put young people centre-stage.

Big and small business, too, must continue to play its part in investing in young people’s futures. It’s not just the work of their charitable foundations; it is core business, and it’s also good for business. Consumers are recognising the value of ensuring we have businesses that put the future and young people first.

And we in civil society have a big role to play. We are not service providers to young people, but facilitators of their ideas: we’re supporters, followers, and co-creators, providing space for them to lead.

And when they lead, they lead well. It has been inspiring watching young Olympians in Tokyo these last two weeks – many of them teenagers – competing not just with extraordinary skill and determination, but also with humility and humanity, rejoicing in others’ success.

Young people are already on the podium: that’s where they must stay.

ENDS

By Ahmed Alhendawi (World Organization of the Scout Movement), Carlos Sanvee (World YMCA), Casey Harden (World YWCA), John May (The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation), Anna Segall (World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts), Jagan Chapagain (IFRC, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies)

The writers are the leaders of the world’s ‘Big 6’ youth organizations, who are founding partners of the Global Youth Mobilization

More information

• This statement has been published on the World Economic Forum website
• Read the statement on the Global Youth Mobilization website
• Read the statement on The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation’s website

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In the name of the young people and communities in Myanmar which it serves, and in the name of community and democracy and livelihoods and of the country’s continued efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, the YMCA Movement calls for the restoration of democratically elected leaders in Myanmar.

We offer our strong support and solidarity to the people of Myanmar and pray for the restoration of the peace and justice which was their vision in the elections of November 2020, in which the National League for Democracy won over 80% of seats.

Myanmar was waiting for the newly elected legislators to begin their new mandate when the parliament session reopened. The people of Myanmar hoped especially that the new Government would be able to regain the trust of the people and the international community, rebuild the economy, and improve the country’s Foreign Direct Investment.

The whole YMCA community across the Asia-Pacific region therefore woke up in shock on 1st February to hear the news that the military had seized control of the country, under an 11-member junta led by the armed forces chief Min Aung Hlaing. The military has declared a year-long state of emergency with the transfer of legislative, executive, and judicial powers to the Commander in Chief. The coup d’état disrupted internet connections and phone lines throughout the country. Pro-democracy activists have been arrested, and soldiers are on the streets.

“Our thoughts are with the people of Myanmar at this time”, said Nam Boo-Won, General Secretary of the Asia and Pacific Alliance of YMCAs. “They are also specifically with our friends and colleagues at the 70 year-old YMCA of Myanmar, based in Yangon and with 17 local YMCAs across the country, serving an estimated 120,000 people.”

More information

• Read the statement of the Asia & Pacific Alliance of YMCAs

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