Youth Leadership in Climate Action: From Advocacy to Impact Panel with UN Officials in the lead-up to COP31

22 May 2026, Istanbul, Türkiye – In the lead-up to COP31, which Türkiye will host in Antalya in 2026, Youth Center for Dialogue and Peace, CIFAL Istanbul, UNITAR and Bahçeşehir University convened a session titled “Youth Leadership in Climate Action: From Advocacy to Impact” at Bahçeşehir University. Held within the framework of the Global Youth Summit for Sustainability 2026, the event brought together students, young climate advocates, academics, and United Nations representatives to explore the critical role of youth in shaping sustainable and climate-resilient societies.

The session centred on three interconnected objectives: strengthening youth participation in climate action, advancing dialogue on global climate processes, and examining how young people can meaningfully contribute to policy design and implementation.

The event started with brief opening remarks from Yama Sukhanyar, Executive Director of the Youth Center for Dialogue and Peace, who emphasized the significance of the conference as a platform for strengthening youth engagement in addressing global challenges. In his remarks, Sukhanyar underlined the vital role of young people in fostering dialogue, promoting peace, and contributing to collective solutions for the pressing issues facing the international community.

The event continued with an address by Dr. Babatunde Ahonsi, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Türkiye, who drew attention to the compounding pressures facing younger generations. Characterising the current moment as one of intertwined crises, he highlighted how climate change, biodiversity loss, inequality, rapid urbanisation, and technological transformation are reshaping daily life, cities, livelihoods, and future prospects in ways that are immediate rather than abstract. Dr. Ahonsi stressed that climate action must be understood not only as an environmental matter but as a question of development and justice, and that young people must be active co-designers of solutions rather than passive consultants.

He also pointed to the growing body of evidence of youth-led innovation worldwide, citing examples of young people developing climate applications, mapping flood risks, and deploying digital tools to hold decision-makers accountable. With COP31 on the horizon, Dr. Ahonsi underlined that the significance of the moment lies not only in international negotiations, but in whether real transformation can be accelerated at the national and local level, across energy systems, cities, food systems, and disaster resilience.

Welcoming the participants on behalf of Bahçeşehir University, Rector Prof. Esra Hatipoğlu took the stage and highlighted the university’s engagement with the United Nations system, as well as its commitment to international cooperation and sustainability. Noting that Bahçeşehir University serves as the host institution of CIFAL Istanbul, affiliated with UNITAR, Prof. Hatipoğlu emphasized the university’s ongoing efforts to advance the Sustainable Development Goals through education, partnerships, and initiatives such as this conference.

After the keynote speeches, a panel discussion, moderated by Bülent Açıkgöz from UNRCO Türkiye, brought together practitioners working across climate transparency, youth engagement, and sustainability. Mr. Açıkgöz kicked-off the conversation by emphasising that climate action is not a standalone agenda but is deeply connected to all of the Sustainable Development Goals, and that intergenerational justice sits at the heart of climate governance given that today’s decisions will shape the rights, opportunities, and wellbeing of future generations.

Zeynep Bakır from UNDP Climate Hub addressed the scale and urgency of the global climate crisis and outlined how international frameworks such as the COP process and the Climate Promise initiative are supporting countries in developing more ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions and long-term climate strategies. The discussion underscored the importance of translating global commitments into country-led, locally grounded climate action. Nilgün Çavuşoğlu from UNICEF Türkiye highlighted the importance of inclusivity and meaningful participation, particularly for young people from vulnerable and disadvantaged communities, affirming that intergenerational equity is a foundational principle of climate governance and that youth-led initiatives offer vital platforms for innovation, awareness-raising, and accountability. Kamil Koray Eryılmaz, Youth and Climate Envoy of Republic of Türkiye, focused on the bridging role of youth leadership across advocacy, academia, and policy implementation, calling for structured youth participation in the lead-up to COP31 where young people do not merely have a voice but actively shape climate policies and outcomes.

The event reaffirms the importance of climate action by placing youth agency and structured participation at the centre of global and national climate governance. Through its emphasis on inclusive and intergenerational policy processes, it also highlights the need for peaceful, just, and accountable institutions. Furthermore, the event reflects the broader value of partnerships by demonstrating how the United Nations system, academia, and youth actors can align around shared sustainability commitments in the critical run-up to COP31.

Malatya, Türkiye- CIFAL Istanbul team visited Malatya, one of the cities affected by the February 6 earthquakes. During the visit, the team came together with local authorities, gave a speech on sustainability awareness as a part of Heroes of the Nature seminar and they spent time with children in various workshops and activities.

CIFAL Istanbul Team and Bright Futures Foundation visited  the Head of Malatya Metropolitan Municipality Strategy Development Department in their Office to discuss possible improvements in the region, the sustainable reconstruction of schools and future collaborations that could contibute to education in the region. Later on the team visited Deputy Mayor of Malatya Battalgazi Municipality. During the meeting, the parties received information from the municipal authorities in regards the social services provided, the local needs and the recovery process in the region. Alongside the current issue at hand, possible supports and future collaborations were discussed.

A meaningful event was held in Malatya’s Battalgazi district, offering support and inspiration to children and parents affected by the February 6 earthquake. A seminar was held in Battalgazi Municipality’s Conference Hall titled “Heroes of the Nature: Raising Awareness on Sustainability”. Ms. Aslıcan Açık and Mr. Eren Yalınkaya started their speech by explaining to the children and their parents what the United Nations is, what it stands for and what we all can do individually to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. The team then touched upon important issues such as the protection of clean water, the use of renewable energy, sustainable cities, combating climate change and the protection of natural life. They tried to inspire children to become nature heroes by stating that they can create big changes with small steps. Throughout the event, interactive questions and interesting data and examples were used to encourage environment friendly habits and participants made a promise to strive for a more livable world together.

Various presentations took place during the seminar the main focus being educating children and families the importance of sustainability specifically waste reduction and the long-term benefits of adopting eco-friendly practices. At the end of the seminar, CIFAL Istanbul team presented books to the children who participated in the event and came together with the children in the tote bag painting workshop.

Over the three-day visit to Malatya, the CIFAL Istanbul team conducted effective activities to raise environmental awareness and the importance of taking steps for sustainable development in the region, starting from the individual level to the governmental authorities.

On January 8, 2025, Prof. Çisil Sohodol, Director of CIFAL Istanbul, visited the FAO Türkiye Headquarters in Ankara, Türkiye to engage in productive discussions aimed at identifying potential areas for future collaboration. The meeting served as a platform to explore pressing topics in agriculture and food security, focusing on innovative approaches and strategies to address current global challenges. As the world faces mounting pressures on food systems and sustainable development, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to working together to address these challenges through impactful projects and initiatives.

Over the years, CIFAL Istanbul and FAO Türkiye have developed a strong partnership focused on advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). During the discussions, Prof. Sohodol and FAO representatives explored opportunities to further deepen their collaboration in line with the SDGs, particularly those related to food security, sustainable agriculture, and gender equality. Building on their successful history of working together, the conversation centered on expanding efforts to promote regenerative agriculture practices, which are crucial for long-term sustainability, and supporting initiatives that empower agricultural communities, especially by amplifying women’s roles within this sector.

A particularly significant aspect of the discussions was the shared commitment to fostering inclusive practices in agriculture. Both parties recognized the critical role of gender dynamics in shaping the agricultural landscape and reaffirmed their dedication to supporting women’s agricultural cooperatives. Addressing these challenges aims to empower women in rural communities, enhance their economic opportunities, and promote a more inclusive and equitable agricultural sector. The meeting also emphasized the need to protect biodiversity, to promote the concept of Sustainability to all generations starting from primary school level, and that water, soil, environment and food are not only a goal to be supported but also a necessity for sustaining vital activities. The meeting was an important step in creating a future where agricultural practices are sustainable, inclusive and in line with global development goals.

11 November 2024, Baku, Azerbaijan – CIFAL Istanbul participated in the COP29 UN Climate Change Conference in collaboration with UNITAR, Bahçeşehir University, CIFAL Istanbul and CIFAL City of London. The event featured a key session on “The Role of Higher Education in Addressing Climate Change: Leadership, Innovation, and Impact,” bringing together academic leaders, policymakers, and sustainability experts to discuss the role of universities in tackling climate change.

The session explored best practices for integrating climate change education into academic programs and training the next generation of leaders in sustainability and environmental stewardship. The discussions emphasized how higher education institutions (HEIs) can contribute to climate action through research, innovation, and policy engagement.

Among the distinguished attendees were Prof. Dr. Esra Hatipoğlu, Rector of Bahçeşehir University, and Cisil Sohodol, Director of CIFAL Istanbul, who highlighted the crucial role of education in addressing global environmental challenges. The session was moderated by Dr. Ebru Canan Sokullu, former Director of CIFAL Istanbul and current Associate Director at CIFAL Global Network, UNITAR.

During the panel discussions, experts underscored the importance of universities serving as key drivers of climate solutions, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and equipping students with the necessary skills to contribute to a sustainable future. The session also reinforced the importance of international academic partnerships in advancing climate resilience strategies.

As climate change continues to present unprecedented challenges, CIFAL Istanbul remains committed to empowering youth, fostering innovative approaches, and strengthening global networks to create a more sustainable world.

“Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future!”

20 November 2024, Istanbul, Turkiye- Kocaeli Bahcesehir Collage, as part of the Global Schools Program, organized the ‘Sustainability Summit’24, bringing together dedicated students, educators, and experts to discuss the future of sustainability. During the event, CIFAL Istanbul emphasized the importance of sustainability, showcasing their initiatives and exploring potential projects within the context of the SDGs.

The summit was honored to host Dr. Yasemin Ülker, Deputy Director of CIFAL Istanbul and Ms. Aslıcan Açık, Member of CIFAL Istanbul Team, who shared their invaluable insights through a detailed presentation on what is the concept of sustainability and its crucial importance in today’s world, before discussing CIFAL Istanbul’s role in promoting sustainability and its efforts in empowering youth to take action on global challenges. 

Additionally, Ms. Aslıcan Açık highlighted their experiences with the CIFAL Istanbul Youth Platform, showcasing how it fosters active youth participation in tackling global issues.

Their presentation highlighted key projects, such as their work on promoting sustainability in urban spaces and youth engagement.

Their speeches touched on critical themes, including CIFAL Istanbul’s impactful projects, UNITAR’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, and the role of the CIFAL Istanbul Youth Platform in fostering active youth participation. Through their words, they inspired students to envision a sustainable future and encouraged them to be changemakers in their communities.

Following the speeches, CIFAL Istanbul team had the privilege of visiting the impressive exhibition of sustainability projects created by the students and listening to their presentations, which showcased the students’ dedication and creativity in addressing global challenges.

The students’ enthusiasm for sustainability and the SDGs shows through their innovative work and determination to make a difference. CIFAL Istanbul and UNITAR remain dedicated to empowering the youth and ensuring they play an essential role in building a better world.

Türkiye’s leading Civil Society Organizations made an important call for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change COP 29 to be held in Azerbaijan on November 11-22, hosted by Bahçeşehir University and CIFAL Istanbul, UNITAR.

Strategic Assessments Ahead of COP29

In October, civil society organizations, experts and academics came together for at Towards COP29: Civil Society Evaluates round table meeting to discuss COP29 priorities at a meeting hosted by Bahçeşehir University and CIFAL Istanbul, UNITAR. The meeting emphasized the view that Türkiye’s climate goals can be achieved through an inclusive and transparent approach, and by valuing different perspectives. The common responsibility in the fight against the climate crisis was underlined.

It was stated that a more realistic and achievable roadmap for the gradual reduction of fossil fuels is needed to realize Türkiye’s goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2053. It was also stated that Türkiye is at an important point in terms of renewable energy capacity and investments.

It was proposed to strengthen cooperation to achieve climate goals and to establish platforms that will ensure continuous dialogue and information sharing with the participation of civil society organizations, academia and the private sector.