NAM Youth Climate Action Forum (NYCAF)

The NAM Youth Climate Action Forum (NYCAF) was successfully held from 20 to 24 June in Baku and Shamakhi, Azerbaijan, bringing together youth representatives of the Non-Aligned Movement, members of the COP29 Presidency Team, high-level government officials, experts, and representatives of international organizations. The Forum served as a dedicated platform to strengthen meaningful youth participation in global climate action and contribute youth-driven perspectives to the international climate agenda.

The Forum commenced with an opening ceremony on 20 June, featuring high-level remarks by Ms. Leyla Hasanova, Youth Climate Champion for COP29 and Chairperson of the NAM Youth Organization, followed by addresses from H.E. Mr. Mukhtar Babayev, COP29 President-Designate and Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Mr. Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Mr. Yalchin Rafiyev, COP29 Lead Negotiator and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The speakers underscored the vital role of youth creativity, innovation, and leadership in advancing climate action and building environmental resilience across NAM Member States.

The substantive program of NYCAF featured panel discussions and roundtable sessions addressing key issues such as youth participation in climate change adaptation, resilience, and sustainable development. Experts and participants exchanged views on the impacts of climate change at local and global levels, explored practical solutions, and highlighted the importance of youth-led initiatives in addressing environmental challenges. A final outcome document reflecting the Forum’s discussions and recommendations was adopted by participants.

In addition to its academic and policy-oriented sessions, the Forum incorporated cultural and educational activities, including city tours in Baku, visits to historical and cultural landmarks, and a study visit to Shamakhi, where participants engaged in further discussions and cultural exchanges. The cultural exhibition and visits to the Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory further enriched the program, fostering intercultural dialogue and shared experiences among participants.

The Forum concluded with an official closing ceremony on 24 June, during which certificates were presented to participants. The final outcome document of NYCAF was announced to be submitted to the COP29 Presidency Team, reaffirming NAMYO’s commitment to ensuring that youth voices from Non-Aligned Movement Member States contribute meaningfully to global climate decision-making processes.