Climate Change: A Call to Action for St. Kitts and Nevis’ Youth
A Challenge from the Prime Minister
The Honourable Dr. Terrance M. Drew, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, has issued a challenge to the nation’s youth to take a stand and have their voices heard on the global challenge of climate change. The call to action was made during the Pre-COP29 Youth Forum, held on October 23, 2024, at the Royal St. Kitts Hotel.
The Climate Change Challenge
As residents of small island states, we are among the most affected by the impacts of climate change, despite being the least responsible for its worsening effects. The leaders of government of small island developing states are working to mitigate the impacts of climate change through global outreach and building resiliency. However, Prime Minister Dr. Drew emphasized that it is crucial for young people to become strong advocates for climate justice and adaptation.
Unleashing Creativity
To take a stand on climate change, Dr. Drew urged the youth to tap into their unlimited creative abilities, saying, "ask the whole world to change its course of destructive action on our climate and environment and to be more responsible." This can be achieved through various activities such as paintings, poetry, speaking competitions, and other creative outlets that will allow their voices to be heard on the issue of climate change.
Sustainable Island State Agenda
The Pre-COP29 Youth Forum also introduced the nation’s youth to the government’s ambitious goal of transforming the twin-island Federation into a Sustainable Island State by 2035. The Sustainable Island State Agenda is built upon seven pillars: Green Energy Transition, Food Security, Economic Diversification, Sustainable Industries, the Creative Economy, COVID-19 Recovery, and Social Protection.
A Healthy Environment, Healthy Islands, and Healthy Country
Dr. Drew emphasized that the government’s goal is to ensure a future for young people to inherit and prosper. He said, "We care about you and we care about our country. The Sustainable Island State will maintain what we have and improve upon it so that you have a healthy environment, healthy islands, and a healthy country to inherit so that you can grow up to be healthy men and women."
Conclusion
As the future inheritors of the planet, it is crucial for St. Kitts and Nevis’ youth to take a stand on the issue of climate change. By tapping into their creative abilities and using various platforms to express themselves, they can make their voices heard and inspire global action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the goal of the Sustainable Island State Agenda?
A: The goal is to ensure a future for young people to inherit and prosper.
Q: What are the seven pillars of the Sustainable Island State Agenda?
A: The seven pillars are Green Energy Transition, Food Security, Economic Diversification, Sustainable Industries, the Creative Economy, COVID-19 Recovery, and Social Protection.
Q: What is the Prime Minister’s message to the youth?
A: Dr. Drew urged the youth to think about their role in maintaining a healthy environment, healthy islands, and a healthy country to inherit.
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