Applications are now open for young environmental leaders, youth organizations, and community networks interested in hosting a Youth Environment Dialogue (YEDx) 2026 in their country or community.

Led by the Children and Youth Major Group (CYMG) to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the initiative aims to create locally driven spaces where young people can discuss environmental priorities, strengthen their understanding of global environmental governance, and develop practical solutions to local environmental challenges.

About YEDx

Youth Environment Dialogues (YEDx) are designed to connect international environmental policies with local action. The initiative recognizes the importance of youth participation in addressing the world's most pressing environmental issues, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

Rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach, YEDx encourages communities to design and lead their own dialogues while drawing on guidance and support from CYMG.

Objectives of the Program

The YEDx initiative seeks to:

• Strengthen young people's leadership skills in environmental action.
• Promote youth-led implementation of local environmental solutions.
• Amplify local perspectives within global environmental discussions.
• Build stronger networks for environmental advocacy and collaboration.

About the Children and Youth Major Group (CYMG)

The Children and Youth Major Group to UNEP serves as the official youth engagement mechanism within the United Nations Environment Programme.

Established through Agenda 21 during the 1992 Rio Conference, CYMG represents youth organizations, networks, and individuals working to address the triple planetary crisis:

• Climate change
• Biodiversity loss
• Pollution

The group advocates for the meaningful participation of young people in environmental decision-making processes at both local and global levels.

Why Participate?

Hosting a YEDx event provides an opportunity to:

• Build local environmental networks.
• Strengthen youth participation in environmental governance.
• Connect local initiatives with global environmental discussions.
• Develop leadership and advocacy skills.
• Create meaningful community-based environmental action.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 16 August 2026.