At the start of COP29, Azerbaijan’s government signed the Declaration on Children, Youth, and Climate Action, marking a commitment to prioritize children’s needs within climate policy frameworks. The signing ceremony saw the participation of Muxtar Babayev, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Ecology and COP29 President; Catherine Russell, UNICEF Executive Director; Leyla Hasanova, COP29’s Youth Climate Champion; as well as Azerbaijani youth representatives.

UNICEF praised Azerbaijan’s commitment to protecting children from climate-related impacts, noting that the declaration establishes a global framework for youth-centered climate policies and actions. As one of the first inclusive frameworks on climate policy for youth, the declaration aims to support efforts at both local and global levels.

The declaration is crucial, as climate change poses significant threats to children’s health, safety, and access to essential services. Nearly a billion children worldwide are at “extremely high risk” from climate change and pollution, with almost half living in 33 countries facing severe environmental risks.

Muxtar Babayev emphasized Azerbaijan’s dedication to advancing climate policies that consider the interests of children and youth. “We urge everyone to consider how climate actions today can create a sustainable future for young people,” he stated, reaffirming Azerbaijan’s focus on protecting future generations.

UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell added that investing in solutions that shield children from the worst impacts of climate change is crucial. She called for other nations to join Azerbaijan in prioritizing youth within climate agendas. UNICEF continues working with governments to adapt critical services in education, health, and social protection to withstand climate impacts.