Youth demand a right-based approach in the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework

Youth members staged an action to demand a rights-based approach to the Global Biodiversity Framework, on the morning of March 17th. 

The protestors stood in the main entrance of the venue where dozens of delegates passed by on their way to Plenary and chanted messages on human rights. “We hand-stamped our masks with blood to send the strongest possible message: environmental defenders daily experience violence for protecting their territories. This is a question of life and death”, said the youth group to ECO in a special interview.

One of the youth members traveled by train for 30 hours to participate in the conference and speak to the party delegates. Talking to ECO, they additionally claimed that without strong references to rights, the new global biodiversity Framework agreement will prolong and incentivize neo-colonial practices and the oppression of indigenous peoples and local communities. “Now is the time to finally undo the historical injustices by giving IPLCs, women and youth strong, unambiguous rights. We have been historically marginalized and are disproportionately impacted by environmental harm, but continue to be key leaders for biodiversity. 

“We must be heard in decisions that impact us. Our rights must be upheld by duty-bearers. That is why we – the youth - today screamed: “Our voices are silenced without rights and equity". Their message echoed through the halls loud and clear.

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