KATHMANDU, AUGUST 19

Nirajan Khadka, an environment and climate change expert, expressed that the youth can have an immense impact on policy if acted with substance.

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Presenting at a Policy Dialogue on Youth Environmental Rights and Climate Protection organised by Children-Women in Social Service and Human Rights (CWISH) about the role of youth in influencing national and international climate and environmental policies, Khadka said, 'Youths in the country need to protest to attract the attention of policymakers, which impacts their lives enormously.'

According to Khadka, youths need to emphasise science, practice and policies. 'In the meantime, they also need to be prepared for protests in case said policies are not implemented,' he said, adding. 'Protests attract the attention of the policymakers. It's cost-effective.'

He also provided instances of several incidents in Nepal, such as how social media posts and protests can result in significant changes in policy formulation. He cited Dilip Mahato's murder for protesting illegal mining, as well as Prem Acharya's self-immolation in front of parliament, leaving a lengthy message on social media.

'Both of them fought for the policy changes, but unfortunately they had lost their lives,' he said. 'We must be aware and alert while protesting. Social media is the best way to protest, but with substance.'

He also emphasised that youth need to become role models by conducting research and integrating them in policy. Citing that research and exposure assist in talking with substance, he urged the youth and lawmakers present in the interaction to engage in policy formulation.

Lawmakers present at the discussion expressed their commitment to involving youth in policy formulation, claiming that they are the country's future.

A federal lawmaker, Ranju Jha, said that she has always encouraged youth to come forth in the policy discussion and assist in formulating policy with vision.

'I would like to invite youth for consultation whenever I have the next policy discussion at my committee, as it is evident that the youth play a pivotal role in policy change,' she stated.

The founder and chairperson of CWISH, Shanti Adhikari stated that encouraging youth to engage in policy advocacy at the local, national, and international levels entails providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively participate in policy-making processes.

'Although the government of Nepal has taken initiatives to address climate change through various environmental legal provisions such as the National Programme of Action (NAPA), Local Adaptation Programme of Action (LAPA), and the Environment Act, our policies do not place a strong emphasis on adapting to climate change impacts, which is critical for a country like Nepal that is highly vulnerable to climate-related challenges,' she said.

'As a result, this policy dialogue program was critical in bridging this gap and developing common understanding, as well as Parliamentarians hearing the demands of youth representatives and influencing environmental policy making frameworks.'