21–24 March 2026
By: Yolay Rees-Mcpherson, Chair, Young Climate Ambassadors · Cymru Global – CCIVS Youth Committee Member
From 21st–24th March 2026, I had the opportunity to participate in the Youth Climate Meeting in Paestum, Italy, hosted by Legambiente. The event brought together young people and youth representatives from across Europe to engage in discussions surrounding climate justice, sustainability, environmental policy, and youth mobilisation for climate action. The meeting created a valuable space for intercultural exchange, collaboration, and the strengthening of international youth networks connected to environmental advocacy and social change.
Workshops & programme
Throughout the programme, participants took part in a range of workshops, discussions, and collaborative activities focused on European climate policies, climate justice, mobilisation strategies for climate action, and initiatives linked to COP31. We also explored topics connected to the Decolonize Project, discussing decolonisation for peace, the roots of conflict, and transforming systems towards climate and social justice.
In addition, participants attended a workshop on greenwashing and accountability in sustainability, which encouraged critical reflection on the role of organisations and businesses within environmental communication and climate action.
“The meeting strongly aligned with the strategic priorities of CCIVS – climate justice, peacebuilding, intercultural dialogue, youth participation, and international solidarity.”
Alignment with CCIVS & Living Earth
The meeting strongly aligned with the strategic priorities of CCIVS, particularly in relation to climate justice, peacebuilding, intercultural dialogue, youth participation, and international solidarity. The event reflected the aims of the Living Earth framework by promoting environmental sustainability and empowering young people to take active leadership roles within climate movements and community-based initiatives.
Discussions throughout the week also reinforced the importance of intersectional and inclusive approaches when addressing climate and social issues within international voluntary service.
Personal reflections
As Chair of the Young Climate Ambassadors at Cymru Global and a member of the CCIVS Youth Committee and Living Earth Group, this experience was particularly valuable in strengthening my understanding of international climate advocacy, youth engagement, and collaborative action. It provided an opportunity to exchange ideas, experiences, and good practices with other young activists and organisations from across Europe while developing new perspectives on climate communication and mobilisation.
Overall, the Youth Climate Meeting was an inspiring and impactful experience that strengthened international cooperation and encouraged meaningful dialogue around climate action and social justice. I am extremely grateful to Legambiente for hosting the event and to CCIVS and Cymru Global for supporting my participation in this opportunity.
LEARN MORE:
Legambiente — hosting organisation
CCIVS & the Living Earth campaign
COP31 — what’s at stake
Cymru Global — Young Climate Ambassadors
Interested in youth climate advocacy in Wales and beyond? Get involved with Cymru Global’s Young Climate Ambassadors.
