Thematic Agenda Papers

The Summit themes are: poverty, environment, social capital and sustainability.

Following is a brief introduction to the four Summit themes. Follow the links at the end of each abstract to the full thematic agenda papers. The Summit organising committee welcomes your thoughts on these papers. Send your comments to us at [email protected] and/or join the online thematic discussion forums.

 

Check out the Final Communique from the International Youth Parliament 2000

COMING SOON - A paper on youth employment by the Youth Employment Summit 2002

 

Poverty
Abstract

The poverty discussion paper explores:

• differing conceptions of poverty - suggesting that multi-dimensional understandings are imperative for developing effective solutions
• various causes of and factors related to poverty - such as meagre assets, inaccessible markets, scarce job opportunities, lack of political power, population pressure, AIDS and wars; and
• some suggested actions for the alleviation of global poverty - including empowerment, debt cancellation, fair trade and enhancement of educational opportunities.

Follow this link to the poverty discussion paper.

You can view messages from the on-line discussion at:

https://groups.yahoo.com/group/iyps_agenda_poverty/messages

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Environment
Abstract

The environment discussion paper provides an introduction to our understanding of the term environment, as well as a brief history of the growth of human awareness of environmental destruction associated with their activity and the rise of the environmental movement. The paper provides two case studies: global warming and ozone depletion. These are examples of large global environmental problems and the difficulties in finding and enacting solutions.

Follow this link to the environment discussion paper.

You can view messages from the on-line discussion at: https://groups.yahoo.com/group/iyps_agenda_environment/messages

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Social Capital
Abstract

The discussion paper on social capital addresses two issues

(1)	An outline is made on why the concept of social capital is innovative and central to social, economic, and political development.
(2)	The paper highlights what young people are already doing and can further do, with the proper support from their elders and senior leaders, to harness social capital as a resource and tool for progress and minimise negative impacts resulting from the loss of valuable forms of traditional social capital.

Follow this link to the social capital discussion paper.

You can view messages from the on-line discussion at: https://groups.yahoo.com/group/iyps_agenda_socialcapital/messages

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Sustainability
Abstract

The critical situation concerning income distribution and environmental degradation, generated in most countries due to the current development model, is warning us of the consequences of not changing our consumption patterns and the existing vision of quality of life.

Sustainable development, understood as development that does not compromise the future social and ecological integrity of ecosystems for the sustained benefit of humanity, appeared as an alternative way. It is an outlook towards the solution of challenges such as: the conservation of nature, a new way of economy, participatory citizenship, poverty mitigation, local and international politics, and a real democracy.

New generations could play a powerful role as change agents promoting a sustainable society, because in fact, they will be the decision-makers of the future.

Follow this link to the sustainability discussion paper.

You can view messages from the on-line discussion at: https://groups.yahoo.com/group/iyps_agenda_sustainability/messages

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