In honour of International Youth Day on 12 August 2024, WAMIP highlighted the crucial role of young people in safeguarding pastoralist rights spoke at the International Year of Rangelands & Pastoralists online event.
Jigden Bayarsaikhan and Oyun-Erdene Ganbold, representatives from the Central Asian region led by Maamankhuu Sodnom – a founding member of WAMIP, along with 10 herders from the Mongolian Gobi provinces spoke about the challenges facing local pastoralists and the work of WAMIP and the Mongolian Gobi Pastoralist Association to address them.
From the devastating effects of climate change, like grassland degradation and desertification, to the clashes with the mining industry and the loss of traditional knowledge due to urbanisation, pastoralist communities are under immense pressure.
The involvement of youth is crucial in raising greater awareness of these issues on the global stage. By engaging with global decision-makers, young people can help protect, strengthen and ensure a brighter future for pastoralist communities worldwide.
The Youth Working Group, which organised this event is leading the way to the 2026 International Year of Rangelands & Pastoralists, declared by the United Nations General Assembly. This initiative aims to highlight the importance of sustainable rangelands and pastoralism in contributing to biodiverse ecosystems, resilient livelihoods, and combating climate change.
Pastoralist organisations and other stakeholders need to unite to support these efforts and amplify the voices of the next generation of leaders committed to safeguarding our planet and its diverse communities.