Young SDG Ambassador from IUHD took part in the ECOSOC Youth Forum in New York as part of the Turkmen delegation

Young SDG Ambassador from IUHD took part in the ECOSOC Youth Forum in New York as part of the Turkmen delegation

The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum has taken place from 16 to 18 April 2024 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The annual Forum is a key platform where young people highlight the actions they already take to make the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development a reality for all and address what still needs to be done to ensure we reach those goals.

The Turkmen delegation, consisting of the head of the international department of the Youth Organization named after Magtymguly, Begench Halnepesov and 3rd year student majoring in International Trade at the International University for the Humanities and Development, Maral Allaberdiyeva, took an active part and represented Turkmenistan with distinction in this prestigious forum.

In the weeks leading up to the forum, the Turkmen delegation prepared thoroughly, aligning its goals with Turkmenistan’s national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With a focus on youth empowerment, sustainable development and inclusive growth, they set out on a journey driven by a desire to strengthen Turkmenistan's voice on the world stage.

On April 16-18, 2024, more than a thousand young representatives from all over the world gathered at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City to participate in the Economic and Social Council Youth Forum. The United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum served as a platform for youth representatives to exchange ideas, share best practices and advocate for sustainable development. Among the many nations represented, Turkmen representatives stood out for their active participation, innovative solutions and commitment to youth empowerment.

The purpose of the forum was to demonstrate the important role of youth in monitoring, implementing and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN 2030 Agenda.

The opening speech of the Youth Forum 2024 was deliver by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and representatives of the Economic and Social Council.

The Youth Forum served as a platform for discussion on the regional impact of SDGs and preparations for the Summit of the Future 2024. In this regard, regional breakout sessions were organized to explore regional challenges and opportunities together with youth organizations and platforms. Turkmen delegates have actively participated in these sessions. During their speech the Turkmen delegation has mentioned about the successful implementation of the State Program of State Policy of Turkmenistan on Youth for the years 2021-2025.

Throughout the forum, delegates have participated in interactive sessions, panel discussions, plenary sessions and side events organised by United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), UN Inter-Agency Network on Youth Development (IANYD), United Nations Major Group for Children and Youth (MGCY), International Coordination Meeting of Youth Organisations (ICMYO).

During these events, Turkmen representatives contributed to constructive discussions and proposals for sustainable development goals, and emphasized the importance of youth-led initiatives in solving global challenges.

The active participation of Turkmen representatives in the Youth Forum held under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) demonstrated their commitment to empowering youth and promoting sustainable development. Through engagement, advocacy and innovative solutions, it demonstrated Turkmenistan's leadership in solving global challenges and building a more stable and prosperous future for all.

Gutlymurat KADYROV,

Instructor of International Relations department of the

International University for the Humanities and Development