Session 6: Nationally Determined Contributions 3.0
Held on 4th October 2025, the sixth session of Youth for COP 2025 spotlighted Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) as a key mechanism for climate ambition and accountability. Moderated by Heeta Lakhani, Founder & Director of The ClimAct Initiative, the session explored how youth can meaningfully engage with national climate policy processes. The session included foundational insights into the UNFCCC framework and NDC formation, practical examples of youth-led advocacy influencing national targets, and firsthand experience of youth inclusion in formal climate negotiations. Isaac Kwabena Danso (Ghana) broke down the UNFCCC architecture and Paris Agreement commitments; Amanullah Porag (Bangladesh) highlighted youth-driven innovation and public pressure shaping national goals; and Leya Zgheib (Lebanon) shared her journey contributing to Lebanon’s NDC 3.0. A lively panel discussion and Q&A offered actionable strategies for youth participation in climate governance. If you missed it live, the recording is a must-watch for anyone passionate about youth-led policy engagement.
Program Timeline
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
26th July
2025
Opening Ceremony
Workshop 1
10th August
2025
23rd August
2025
30th August
2025
20th September
2025
27th September
2025
Demystifying COP – Foundations & Futures
4th October
2025
11th October
2025
18th October
2025
December
2025 (TBD)
Climate Finance & Justice
Session 1
Session 2
Session 3
Session 4
Session 5
Session 6
Just Transition &
Green Jobs
Adaptation & Resilience
Forests, Biodiversity & Indigenous Wisdom
Nationally Determined Contributions 3.0
Debriefing Session: COP 30
Workshop 2
About the Program
Empowering youth to engage in policy making and negotiations is imperative in today's world. The Climate Reality Project India & South Asia is collaborating with partners who share a commitment to nurturing the next generation of climate leaders. Through "Youth 4 COP," our aim is to equip young minds with essential skills and empower them to contribute to a better future for all. Today's youth are the stewards of our planet, holding the key to effecting meaningful change. Our program seeks to provide young participants with a deeper understanding of COP processes and deliberations. They will be trained to articulate their ideas, concerns, and solutions effectively, ensuring their voices are heard. Furthermore, they will learn how to navigate the complexities of the COP platform, preparing them to actively participate in future deliberations. This pioneering initiative endeavours to cultivate leadership skills among youth participants encouraging them to ignite change through capacity building workshops, knowledge-sharing sessions, and networking opportunities.
Photo Credit: flickr/UNclimatechange / CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
Mission
DEVELOP NEGOTIATION & LEADERSHIP SKILLS
The training equips participants to understand climate negotiations better.
Foster leadership through expert lectures, workshops & simulating exercises for a more meaningful global impact.
BRIDGE THE GAP BETWEEN THE GLOBAL NORTH
& SOUTH
Experience sharing & collaboration on Equity, Just Transition and on ground climate action.
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Learn and execute projects targeting climate solutions / challenges in diverse geographic regions.
Photo Credit: flickr/UNclimatechange / CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
REPORT COP PROCESS ON DIVERSE MEDIA PLATFORMS
Utilise media tools to engage with global youth.
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Lead digital campaigns (blog posts, social media) to disseminate information on COP proceedings (day to day action, as it happens), as well as their implications and local scenarios.
Program Structure
Registration
Individuals aged 18 to 30 who are passionate about climate action are encouraged to register for the Youth for COP 2025 program. To join, simply click on the registration link on this page and complete the form with your basic information.
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Registration is free and open to youth from all backgrounds. Don’t miss this chance to learn from climate experts, connect with like-minded peers, and be part of a youth-led movement for climate justice. The last date to register is 20th July 2025.