The Children and Youth Major Group (CYMG) serves as the official youth engagement mechanism to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), representing a diverse movement of young people and youth organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainability. CYMG is youth-led, independent, and provides a meaningful space for children and youth to participate in global environmental governance and conservation processes.
Children and Youth are advocates for future generations. As the issues we are addressing today will have a deep impact on present and future generations, the contributions of the Children and Youth Major Group are key for UNEP’s work on policy and programmatic level.
CYMG’s mandate is rooted in key UN resolutions, UNEA resolutions, and UNEP’s Stakeholder Engagement Mechanism, which collectively empower young people to engage in UNEP’s intergovernmental processes and advocate for sustainable development policies that prioritize environmental health for future generations. As one of UNEP’s nine major groups established through Agenda 21 of the 1992 Rio Conference, CYMG has long championed youth inclusion, intergenerational dialogue, and impactful environmental action.
Through CYMG, UNEP continues to foster collaboration with youth worldwide, promoting an informed, empowered generation capable of leading positive environmental change.
Accredited organizations
Find here a list of all Children and Youth organizations accredited with UNEP.
