UNYAP Newsletter #17: December

Welcome to UNYAP’s final monthly newsletter of 2023!

As we reflect on December’s highlights and achievements, we’re determined to close the year strongly and start the new year with renewed strength.

28th Climate Change Convention (COP28)

UNYAP Coordinator B. Naranzaya had an incredible opportunity to participate in COP28! Naranzaya represented the youth of Mongolia in various events, ranging from educational initiatives on sustainable development to advocating for youth involvement in climate finance.

Naranzaya, along with B. Enkhuun, co-founder of Breathe Mongolia, also delved into the intersection of technology and climate advocacy, emphasizing how technology addresses the challenges of climate change through initiatives like climate tech and AI applications.

Naranzaya and Enkhuun were active participants in the Climate Youth Negotiator Programme (CYNP), an intensive leadership and negotiation training program dedicated to empowering youth negotiators worldwide and providing them with the skills and connections for meaningful participation in international platforms. This year’s program was special, as Naranzaya was not only trained as a youth delegate but as a proficient youth negotiator. UNYAP would like to acknowledge that this remarkable achievement wouldn’t have been possible without her dedication and hardwork.

We believe that Naranzaya’s commitment has undeniably enriched UNYAP, contributing immensely to our growth and impact.

Special Thanks

UNYAP would like to express our gratitude to M. Oyungerel, co-founder of Airee Felt, a revolutionary line of eco-friendly air purifiers made from wool, for participating in COP27 and pioneering the introduction of CYNP to Mongolia.

Additionally, we would like to extend our deepest thanks to E. Khishigjargal, founder of the United Nations Association (UNA) of Mongolia, for her unwavering support for UNYAP and our members.

UNYAP’s Global Goals for Youth Program Breaks New Ground for 2024

Traditionally held in Ulaanbaatar, this year’s Global Goals for Youth Program (GGYP) will be returning to venture beyond the city limits into rural realms for 2024!

We all know that climate change is becoming one of the most pressing problems the world faces. Especially for a country like Mongolia where agriculture is the backbone of the economy, climate change has the most harmful effects, and UNYAP recognizes the urgency to address this challenge. Therefore, we are dedicated to expanding GGYP to rural areas to equip youths with the knowledge and skills to identify, adapt to, and champion sustainability in the face of climate change.

Student Energy Summit 2023

UNYAP member G. Anu actively participated in the Student Energy Summit (SES), the world’s largest youth-led energy event hosted by New York University Abu Dhabi!

Anu collaborated alongside international youth leaders, industry experts, and government officials, serving as a representative for Mongolia. Under the theme “Reimagining the Future,” they engaged in discussions and shared ideas concerning the topics of energy transition, public-private partnerships, and decarbonizing the energy mix.

We are proud of G. Anu’s representation at the SES, which showcases UNYAP’s commitment to global discussions on sustainable development, and we are immensely proud of her contributions.

Period UB Menstrual Hygiene Movement

UNYAP facilitated the Period UB Menstrual Hygiene Movement Workshop series as part of the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence international campaign which spans from 25 November, International Day of the Elimination of Violence against Women, until 10 December, Human Rights Day.

Our workshops took place at the 29th, 97th, and 159th Schools, where we addressed both female and male students, delivering education on the menstrual cycle, hygiene practices, care routines, and dietary considerations. The primary goal was to raise awareness and break the stigma associated with menstruation in educational environments.

By fostering empathy and a positive mindset, UNYAP sought to build a supportive community at schools and shed light on what menstruation really is – a natural and healthy part of life.

Consultative Meeting on UN Code of Conduct

The United Nations is developing a Code of Conduct for information integrity on digital platforms. Aiming to gather valuable feedback and suggestions for the Code, the UN Mongolia organized a consultative meeting in cooperation with the Mongolian Press Institute and the Mongolian National Commission for UNESCO.

UNYAP participated in the meeting and gave suggestions on behalf of Mongolian youth. As the UN’s Code will provide Member States and digital platforms a worldwide strategy to counter information threats based on human rights, UNYAP is glad we took part in making the digital space a safer place.

Mongolia-UNICEF Country Programme 2023-2027 End-Year Review 2023

UNYAP participated in the annual review meeting hosted by the Government of Mongolia and UNICEF for the Country Programme 2023-2027.

The meeting showcased major accomplishments and results from national surveys conducted by UNICEF and government entities, highlighting a successful year of collective efforts towards children’s advocacy and objectives. UNYAP is grateful to have learned about UNICEF and the Government of Mongolia’s joint work, along with partners, towards a secure and climate-resilient future for all children.

UNYAP Holidays

As we conclude our monthly newsletter series for the year 2023, we reflect on a year marked by growth, transition, and strengthened purpose. With newfound experiences, creations, and connections, we are looking forward to the new year filled with more opportunities for advocacy and impactful engagements.

We extend our heartfelt thanks for your unwavering support throughout this year and we look forward to your continued support as we persist in connecting youth to the UN and fulfilling our mission.

2023 provided UNYAP with valuable moments for reflection on our achievements and contributions toward creating a better world.

Curious about our accomplishments and milestones reached in 2023? Stay tuned for an all exclusive end-of-year review packed with insightful statistics!

We will catch you again in the next newsletter.