Youth Led Climate Action : Empowering Voices, Driving Change

Abstract

This paper examines the importance of youth-led climate action in the context of global efforts to address climate change. It begins by highlighting the Paris Agreement's recognition of the rights and concerns of children and youth, particularly those who are economically and socially disadvantaged, in the face of climate-related disasters. Despite being disproportionately affected by climate change; the voices of young people are often marginalized in discussions on climate action. However, there has been a significant rise in youth-led climate activism, characterized by civic engagement, dissent, and protests, challenging government inaction and advocating for sustainable solutions. The paper traces the role of courts in amplifying youth voices and holding governments accountable for climate action. While bringing out Indian climate actions perspectives, it argues for more inclusive and youth-centred climate policies to ensure intergenerational and intragenerational justice, emphasizing the importance of actively involving young people in decision-making processes. The paper also addresses the challenges faced by youth-led climate action from traditional climate lobbies and calls for greater recognition of the role of young people in shaping a liveable planet for future generations.