The Voice of Children and Youth for Rio+20
2011 Tunza International Children and Youth Conference
Bandung Declaration
October 1, 2011
§1
We, the delegates to the 2011 Tunza International Children and Youth Conference
representing 118 different countries, are united in calling upon world leaders to
move to a sustainable development pathway that safeguards the Earth and its
people for our generation and generations to come. We urge governments to
respond to and not ignore the demands of the children and youth.
Section 1: Rio+20 and the Promises to Our Generation
I admit that it is quite a while since I last posted a blog, but then, many things have been happening; its a lame excuse, but one worth giving!
So, this year is an epic one; I know I said that before, but nonetheless, I will say it again! This is the year of the Youth. Why do I say so? Rio+20 is almost here, in June 2012!
I always pride myself in my fluency and ease of writing, but this is one of those occasions where you have to reflect on the moment, look for the right words and savour the moment before setting to write. The ' We Have Faith-Act Now for Climate Justice' African Youth Climate Justice Caravan, henceforth referred to as the Caravan, made its grand entry into Nairobi, Kenya, on 15th December 2011, after 42 days of road travel to Durban, South Africa, and back, for the COP17 climate change talks. And, as was the norm – defying all odds – the mood of the caravan youth was euphoric and greatly optimistic, despite all the fatigue from the long travel. The reception luncheon on 16th December 2011 was the actual testament of what had just happened.