Theme: Advancing Democratic Resilience at the Intersection of Human Rights and Environmental Justice
Empowering Africa | A Forum on Democracy, Human Rights, and Environmental Justice
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Join us at a pivotal moment for Africa as we convene thought leaders, activists, and policymakers to tackle pressing challenges at the nexus of democracy, human rights, and environmental justice. This forum is your opportunity to be part of the solution.
Introduction
Africa stands at a critical juncture, grappling with the dual challenges of promoting democratic governance and addressing socio-environmental injustices. Systemic corruption remains a significant hurdle, with 64% of Africans perceiving it as worsening, according to Transparency International’s 2023 Global Corruption Barometer; notable cases include Zimbabwe’s “Gold Mafia” scandal and South Africa’s state capture revelations.
Human rights violations are equally alarming, exemplified by violent crackdowns on Generation Z-led protests against Kenya’s controversial Finance Bill and the tragic rise of femicide in South Africa, where 11 women are murdered daily. Meanwhile, environmental degradation compounds these challenges, with illegal oil refining in Nigeria’s Niger Delta destroying ecosystems and prolonged drought in the Horn of Africa leaving over 20 million people food insecure. These interconnected issues threaten democratic progress, demand urgent reforms, and call for concerted efforts from governments, civil society, and international partners.
[Partnership Formđź”—]
The Youth Café (TYC) has been a steadfast advocate for human rights and environmental justice across Africa, driving impactful programs that empower youth and foster sustainable practices. Through Intergenerational Dialogue programs, TYC has amplified youth voices in decision-making processes, while its environmental campaigns promote actionable solutions to climate challenges.
Despite progress, African youth face persistent barriers, including limited access to political processes, economic instability, and restrictive laws curbing activism. These challenges, however, present opportunities for transformative change. With Africa’s rapidly growing youth population, investments in education, leadership development, and digital literacy can unlock their potential as catalysts for democratic resilience.
Objectives
Discuss Africa’s key challenges to democracy at the intersection of human rights, and environmental justice.
Highlight the role of anti-corruption efforts in advancing Human rights and environmental justice
Explore innovative and inclusive solutions to strengthen democratic institutions.
Share best practices for environmental justice and Human Rights.
Empower youth and civil society to drive democratic reforms.
Foster partnerships to address corruption, human rights, and environmental issues.
Key Guiding Questions
How can Africa address systemic corruption to advance human rights and governance?
What innovative solutions exist to tackle environmental injustices in the region?
How do human rights violations impact Africa’s democratic progress, and what role can civil society play in reversing this trend?
What strategies can strengthen youth participation in democratic and environmental decision-making?
How can intergenerational and cross-sector collaboration address governance, corruption, and environmental challenges?
What tools and mechanisms can ensure accountability and transparency in public institutions?
Conference Format
The one-day conference, scheduled at the UN Complex in Gigiri (TBC), Nairobi, will engage approximately 100 participants, including experts, policymakers, civil society leaders, and youth advocates in a powerful exchange of ideas and solutions. Featuring compelling keynote speeches, thought-provoking panel discussions, interactive breakout sessions, and impactful plenary forums, the event will spotlight youth leadership and grassroots activism as catalysts for change. Through workshops and panels, participants will explore cutting-edge policy innovations and best practices, forging cross-sector and cross-border collaborations to advance democratic resilience, human rights, and environmental justice.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to contribute to Africa’s democratic and environmental future. Register now to secure your spot at the forefront of change. Contact us today!
Local Time
- Timezone: America/New_York
- Date: 28 Mar 2025
- Time: 1:00 am - 11:00 am
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