Young people across the Asia-Pacific region are being invited to contribute their perspectives in advance of the 9th Session of the Committee on Environment and Development (CED9) convened by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).

Through a structured regional survey, youth voices will help shape a synthesis report and an official youth statement to be presented during CED9. The process is designed to ensure that the priorities, lived experiences, and solutions proposed by young people are reflected in high-level environmental discussions across the region.

This consultation is being coordinated by leading youth networks, including YOUNGO, the Children and Youth Major Group to UNEP, Global Youth Biodiversity Network Thailand, Young Urbanists of Southeast Asia, and the Youth Empowerment in Climate Action Platform, with coordination support from ESCAP.

Purpose of the Survey

The initiative seeks to gather structured and representative youth input that will:

• Validate and refine priority issues identified by young people across environmental sectors

• Identify gaps between policy commitments and on-the-ground realities

• Highlight barriers that hinder meaningful youth engagement

• Showcase youth-led case studies and innovative solutions

• Consolidate recommendations to strengthen inclusive governance

The findings will directly inform a regional youth synthesis report and a youth statement delivered during CED9 discussions.

Key Thematic Areas

Participants are encouraged to share insights related to:

• Climate action

• Biodiversity conservation

• Oceans and marine protection

• Air pollution

• Water resource management

• Environmental governance

• Sustainable urban development

• Broader sustainability challenges in the Asia-Pacific region

These themes align with regional cooperation priorities outlined in the Ministerial Declaration on environmental protection and solidarity in Asia and the Pacific.

Confidentiality and Follow-Up

Survey responses will be used exclusively for the CED9 youth engagement process. Inputs will remain within the coordination framework managed by the regional youth groups and ESCAP and will not be shared externally beyond this scope.

After completing the survey, participants will receive access to youth engagement resources and updates on the final synthesis report and youth statement.

This consultation offers a meaningful opportunity for Asia-Pacific youth to influence regional environmental dialogue and ensure that their voices are represented in decisions shaping the planet’s future.

All responses must be submitted by Sunday, 22 March, 23:59 (GMT+7).