Shaping the future: Young activists breaking down barriers

Throughout history, young people and youth groups have been at the forefront of social change and the advancement of human rights.
While numerous countries recognise the importance of youth empowerment, youth activists often face great personal risks. From widespread online attacks to age restrictions to funding - today’s world is often ill-equipped to adequately respond to the specific challenges that young human rights defenders face, both de jure and de facto. The Declaration on Human Rights Defenders, for example, which plays a crucial role in outlining the duties of States with regards to human rights defenders, does not mention “youth” once.
Join us, along with experts and Right Livelihood Laureates, to discuss the specific challenges that young activists face all over the world and to reflect on the role of the UN, States and INGOs in better protecting them and inspiring young people to become activists. Their commitments today, have the power of shaping tomorrow’s world.
Panellists:
Ms Mary Lawlor, UN Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights Defenders
Ms Ratha Sun, Activist, Mother Nature Cambodia, 2023 Right Livelihood Laureate
Ms. Natallia Satsunkevich, activist, Human Rights Center “Viasna”, 2020 Right Livelihood Laureate
Ms Mozn Hassan, Founder, Doria Feminist Fund and Nazra for Feminist Studies, 2016 Right Livelihood Laureate
Moderated by Ms Jenny Jansson Pearce, Deputy Director, Right Livelihood