In November 2024, Youth4Climate Justice (Y4CJ) convened a high-level post-COP29 dialogue meeting with members of the Zambia Youth Parliamentary Caucus. The consultative session provided a timely and strategic platform for young climate leaders to engage directly with lawmakers on the outcomes of the 29th United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP29) and Zambia’s progress on its climate commitments.
The meeting brought together youth activists, climate policy experts, and members of Parliament to critically analyse the key decisions made during COP29 and assess their implications for Zambia’s climate agenda. The discussion focused on the country’s
Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) Zambia’s official climate action plan under the Paris Agreement which outlines its strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate impacts.
Participants used the platform to reflect on whether Zambia’s current policies, investments, and legislative frameworks are aligned with the goals outlined in the NDCs. The dialogue also emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, and inclusive implementation, especially ensuring that young people, women, and vulnerable communities are meaningfully engaged in climate decision-making.
The parliamentarians expressed appreciation for the continued leadership and pressure from young climate advocates, acknowledging that youth movements like Y4CJ are instrumental in driving policy dialogue and holding duty bearers accountable. They also reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively with young people to advance ambitious climate action at both national and local levels. This engagement marked an important step toward bridging the gap between grassroots climate advocacy and parliamentary oversight. By creating a space for reflection and co-creation, the post-COP29 dialogue reaffirmed the shared responsibility of youth and policymakers in pushing Zambia toward a more resilient and climate-just future.
