The 19th United Nations Climate Change Conference of Youth (COY19)

The 19th United Nations Climate Change Conference of Youth (COY19) was successfully held from 7 to 9 November in Baku, Azerbaijan, bringing together young climate leaders from around the world ahead of COP29. Co-organized by YOUNGO and the NAM Youth Organization, COY19 served as a global platform to amplify youth voices, foster dialogue, and advance youth-driven contributions to international climate action.

The Conference commenced with an official opening ceremony on 7 November, featuring welcoming remarks by representatives of the co-organizers, followed by high-level addresses from Mr. Yalchin Rafiyev, COP29 Lead Negotiator and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan; Ms. Nigar Arpadarai, Climate Change High-Level Champion for COP29; Dr. Saja Farooq Abdullah, UNICEF Representative to the Republic of Azerbaijan; H.E. Mr. Fergus Auld, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Azerbaijan; and Ms. Nargiz Hajiyeva, British Council Azerbaijan Country Director. The speakers highlighted the indispensable role of youth in shaping inclusive, innovative, and sustainable climate policies.

The substantive program of COY19 featured interactive sessions, panel discussions, and plenary meetings addressing a wide range of topics, including climate and migration, green and climate-related skills, heritage and climate resilience, sustainable energy access, soil revitalization, and green job opportunities. Participants engaged in dynamic exchanges, shared best practices, and explored practical pathways for youth-led climate solutions.

On the final day, the Conference concluded with an official closing ceremony attended by H.E. Mr. Mukhtar Babayev, COP29 President-Designate, Ms. Leyla Hasanova, Youth Climate Champion for COP29, Dr. Felipe Paullier, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, and Ms. Nigar Baghirli, Head of the Secretariat of the NAM Youth Organization. During the closing session, the Global Youth Statement, the final outcome document of COY19 outlining youth priorities and recommendations on global climate action, was officially presented to the COP29 Presidency.

In addition to its policy-oriented agenda, COY19 featured cultural and networking activities, including a cultural night showcasing Azerbaijani heritage, further strengthening solidarity, intercultural understanding, and collaboration among youth delegates. COY19 reaffirmed the central role of youth as key stakeholders in global climate governance and contributed meaningfully to the youth legacy of COP29.