Year in Review: Caribbean Front
FEBRUARY
Recap of the Caribbean Climate Justice Writeshop in Grenada
The Caribbean Climate Justice Writeshop recently took place in Grenada, bringing together a diverse group of activists, scholars, and community leaders dedicated to addressing climate change and advocating for justice in the Caribbean region. This collaborative event aimed to provide a workshop space for experts to discuss the International Court of Justice Advisory Opinion Written Submissions and their significance.
Purpose and Goals
The Writeshop served as a vital platform for experts to come together to explore the implications of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) Advisory Opinion Process. Participants worked on crafting written submissions that reflect the urgent climate challenges faced by the Caribbean, emphasizing the importance of a coordinated approach in advocating for climate justice. Our Caribbean Front Coordinator Ashawnte Russell and Climate Advocate and Campaigner from Curaçao, Muskaan Khemani. Together, they presented a youth presentation covering the importance of young people in this hearing and how we in the region need to ensure that our collective voices are heard by putting forth strong submissions to the court.
MARCH
The Caribbean Climate Justice Camp: A Gathering for Change in Sint Maarten
©Haus of Hyman Production Company
In a region profoundly affected by climate change, the Caribbean Climate Justice Camp held in Sint Maarten marked a significant gathering of activists, community leaders, and concerned citizens. Organized by Roots People, the camp focused on addressing the unique challenges faced by Caribbean nations, highlighting the urgent need for climate justice.
Understanding Climate Justice
Climate justice recognizes that climate change disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities, particularly those in developing nations. In the Caribbean, rising sea levels, intense storms, and changing weather patterns threaten livelihoods and ecosystems. The camp aimed to raise awareness about these issues and empower local communities to advocate for their rights.
Key Themes and Discussions
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Discussions emphasized the importance of protecting indigenous lands and ensuring that local voices are integral to climate action strategies.
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Participants shared knowledge about sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and waste management, promoting practices that mitigate environmental impact.
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Strategies for enhancing community resilience to climate-related disasters, emphasizing preparedness and adaptive measures.
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A presentation by the World’s Youth for Climate Justice Caribbean Front highlighting the International Court of Justice (ICJ) Advisory Opinion Process and the importance of stronger international climate policies and accountability.
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The camp's goal to amplify local voices in the climate justice movement by fostering collaboration among diverse groups and creating a platform for grassroots activism.
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Demonstrating the power of community engagement in tackling climate change, fostering solidarity, and equipping participants with new knowledge and connections.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing influence of the camp's lessons and relationships on efforts to advocate for environmental justice in the Caribbean.
MARCH
XTREME Hangout: Engaging Youth for Climate Action in the Bahamas
The XTREME Hangout, organized by the Bahamas Reef Environmental Education Foundation (BREEF) in March, brought together high school students from across the Bahamas to discuss environmental issues and climate action. The World’s Youth for Climate Justice Caribbean Front participated, enhancing the event's impact through a panel discussion and interactive sessions.
Fostering Environmental Awareness
The XTREME Hangout aimed to inspire and educate young people about the importance of protecting the Caribbean’s unique ecosystems, particularly its coral reefs. With climate change posing significant threats to marine biodiversity, the event served as a platform for youth to learn about environmental conservation and sustainability.
A Collaborative Dialogue
One of the highlights of the event was the panel discussion featuring representatives from the World’s Youth for Climate Justice Caribbean Front. They shared insights on climate change’s effects on the Caribbean and emphasized the role of youth in advocating for climate justice. The discussion encouraged participants to think critically about their responsibilities in safeguarding the environment.
Youth-to-Youth Engagement
The event emphasized the power of youth engagement, with interactive workshops allowing high school students to share their thoughts and experiences related to environmental issues. This peer-to-peer dialogue fostered a sense of community and collaboration, empowering students to take ownership of their role in climate action.
Key Takeaways
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The event highlighted the importance of education in motivating youth to become active participants in environmental conservation.
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Participants had the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations, fostering a supportive network for future initiatives.
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The discussions ignited a passion for advocacy, inspiring students to engage in local projects and campaigns aimed at protecting their natural resources.
Looking Ahead
The XTREME Hangout exemplified the potential of youth engagement in driving climate action across the Caribbean. As young leaders emerge from this experience, they carry with them the knowledge and enthusiasm necessary to tackle pressing environmental challenges. This event allowed for youth to engage with young people across the space of climate action and learn more about XTREME International’s Environmental and Sustainability Director and member of BREEF’s Board of Director, Amber Nuttal. This summit provided an amazing opportunity for young people to collaborate with each other and learn from the amazing environmental officers from BREEF and the array of speakers invited.
In conclusion, the collaboration between the Bahamas REEF Environmental Education Foundation (BREEF) and the World’s Youth for Climate Justice Caribbean Front at the XTREME Hangout was a significant step toward mobilizing young voices for climate action. By equipping the next generation with the tools and knowledge needed to advocate for their environment, the event paved the way for a more sustainable future for the Bahamas and the wider Caribbean region.
JULY
Honored to Be Recognized: Ignite 30 Under 30 Change Maker Award
“No person was ever honored for what they received. Honour has been the reward for what they gave.” — Calvin Coolidge.
We are happy to announce that our Caribbean Front Coordinator, Ashawnte Russell was recognized as one of the recipients of the Ignite 30 Under 30 Change Maker Award during Caribbean-American Heritage Month in Washington, DC. This esteemed award celebrates the remarkable contributions of young leaders to their communities, and Ashawnte is proud to stand among such inspiring individuals.
At the event, Ashawnte had the privilege of presenting the vital work she is doing as the Caribbean Front Coordinator for the World’s Youth for Climate Justice. Her mission is to champion youth inclusion within international communities, particularly in support of the International Court of Justice Advisory Opinion. It is crucial that young voices are part of the climate conversation, and she is excited to continue this important work.
Ashawnte extends her deepest gratitude to Ignite Caribbean – Institute of Caribbean Studies, Washington DC, for this incredible opportunity. She is also thankful to everyone who has supported her throughout this journey.
A special thank you goes to the Caribbean community that embraced her during her time in Washington.
To learn more about the work of the World’s Youth for Climate Justice, please visit their website: www.wy4cj.org.
Happy Caribbean-American Heritage Month!!
Recap of the Second Annual Bahamas Youth Climate Conference
The Second Annual Bahamas Youth Climate Conference recently took place, bringing together a vibrant community of young leaders from The Bahamas and across the Caribbean. This year’s event focused on the crucial importance of climate education and fostering dialogue to inspire actionable solutions to the climate crisis.
A Platform for Youth Engagement
The conference provided a platform for Bahamian and Caribbean youth to engage in discussions about the pressing environmental challenges facing their communities. With interactive workshops, panel discussions, and collaborative activities, participants had the opportunity to share ideas, strategies, and experiences related to climate action.
Key Themes and Discussions
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Discussions focused on advocating for policies that prioritize environmental sustainability and include youth voices in decision-making processes.
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Workshops that allowed participants to brainstorm innovative solutions to local climate issues, fostering collaboration and teamwork.
Career Fair Highlights
A standout moment from the conference was the BYCC Career Fair. Various local organizations introduced themselves and shared their missions with the audience. The interactive session provided a fantastic opportunity for students to engage directly with these organizations, fostering connections and sparking new ideas for the future. Thanks were given to everyone who participated and made the event a success.
A Special Acknowledgment
A thank you to someone for an inspiring keynote address and insightful presentation on climate change diplomacy at the Bahamas Youth Climate Conference 2024. The person’s expertise in international climate law and dedication to the Caribbean’s climate resilience—from work with the UN Climate process to a role at Climate Analytics—is commendable. The document expresses inspiration and looks forward to continued collaboration.
Empowering Future Leaders
The Second Annual Bahamas Youth Climate Conference highlighted the challenges posed by climate change and celebrated the resilience and creativity of young leaders. Participants left inspired and equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to drive change in their communities.
Looking Ahead
As the conference concluded, it was clear that the momentum generated by these young leaders would continue to ripple throughout the Caribbean. By prioritizing climate education and fostering dialogue, the next generation is poised to play a vital role in shaping a sustainable future.
In summary, the Second Annual Bahamas Youth Climate Conference was a powerful reminder of the impact youth can have in the fight against climate change. By coming together to share knowledge and strategies, participants are better prepared to tackle the environmental challenges facing their communities today and in the future.
Climate Clock Tickdown: A Wake-Up Call for Climate Justice
The Climate Clock is a simple yet powerful concept: a clock that counts down the critical time window to reach zero emissions (our “Deadline”) while tracking our progress on key solution pathways (“Lifelines”). It symbolizes the efforts of millions of activists and concerned experts, showing us what needs to be done and by when. On July 22, 2024, the Climate Clock ticked below five years, serving as a stark wake-up call to advance the climate transition while there is still time.
In response to this urgent call, the World’s Youth for Climate Justice (WYCJ) marked this significant occasion, aptly named Climate Emergency Day, by hosting the 12-Hour Global Climate Justice Conference. This intensive event featured a 12-hour livestream with sessions.
OCTOBER
Shattering Records and Building Synergies: A Youth Delegate's Perspective on Climate Action
In 2024, the world witnessed a shattering of monthly heat records and indexes, underscoring the urgent need for climate action and sustainable development across all borders. This pressing backdrop framed the Fifth Global Conference on Strengthening Synergies between the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which I had the honor of attending as a Youth Delegate in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on September 5-6.
The conference, aptly themed “Building a Just World and Sustainable Planet,” was co-convened by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and the UNFCCC Secretariat. It gathered nearly 300 participants and 80 speakers, with sessions streamed globally, reflecting a collective commitment to addressing the climate crisis.
World’s Youth for Climate Justice was proud to have its Caribbean Front Coordinator, Ashawnte Russell, deliver a Youth Statement during the Conference Opening and High-level Segment. In her address, Ashawnte advocated for meaningful youth leadership, emphasizing the importance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for future generations. This platform allowed for her to highlight the vital role of young people in shaping a sustainable and just future.
One of the critical points stressed was the importance of Caribbean representation in global climate conversations. Without our voices, we risk being excluded from crucial discussions and decisions that directly impact our region. The Caribbean, often at the frontlines of climate change, must be included to ensure that our unique challenges and solutions are recognized and addressed.
We are immensely grateful for the opportunity to represent my country and region at such a significant event. My heartfelt thanks go to Inti Corporation Ltd. for sponsoring Ashawnte’s involvement as their Youth Environmental Ambassador and to the Secretariat for considering her for this incredible opportunity. We look forward to continuing our advocacy for youth and climate action on behalf of the Caribbean.
NOVEMBER
A Historic Moment for Caribbean Youth at the International Court of Justice Hearings
As the International Court of Justice (ICJ) Advisory Opinion Oral Hearings draw near this December, I am filled with pride and anticipation, knowing that our region’s voice will be at the forefront of this historic moment. From October 30 to November 1, the Faculty of Law and the Shridath Ramphal Centre for International Trade, Law, Policy and Services (SRC) at Cave Hill hosted the Caribbean ICJ Advocacy Clinic on Climate Change. This three-day conference was an essential step in preparing for the upcoming ICJ hearing on climate change.
It was truly an honour to have the positions and concerns of youth presented in this crucial dialogue. Through the efforts of the WYCJ Caribbean Front, we had the opportunity to present the perspectives of young people—emphasizing the urgent need to consider their voices and experiences in the broader climate conversation. We were able to highlight the specific needs of Caribbean youth and the importance of including these viewpoints as integral to the overall goal of the Advisory Opinion.
The energy and commitment surrounding this advocacy clinic underscore the Caribbean’s growing role on the global stage as we advocate for climate justice and sustainability. As the hearings draw closer, the momentum continues to build, and it is clear that the Caribbean’s voice will be a force to be reckoned with in shaping the future of global climate policy.
AO, let’s go!
Climate Justice: The Cost and the Urgent Need for Action
Climate justice is a crucial concept that inevitably emerges when discussing the multifaceted issue of climate change. As an “existential threat” and a “cross-cutting issue,” climate change’s complexity is staggering. Its intricate connections with nearly every sector of human life—agriculture, health, industry, and more—make it one of the most urgent and expensive challenges of the 21st century.
Dear reader, I don’t know if you fully realize just how expensive the impacts of climate change truly are. A recent study published in Nature estimated that the annual costs of climate change could reach around $38 trillion by 2049. For perspective, that’s more than double the annual GDP of the European Union. And that’s just the monetary cost.
The non-financial consequences of climate change, known as non-economic loss and damage, are equally devastating. These include mental health impacts on vulnerable populations, worsening health conditions for those with pre-existing issues or older adults, and the loss of cultural or historical landmarks. One striking example I witnessed earlier this year was a video showing a seaside cemetery in St. Lucia being completely washed out by Hurricane Beryl. To me, that video encapsulates loss and damage: the graves of loved ones uprooted and lost forever, casualties of a storm intensified by anthropogenic emissions. These are the human and cultural costs of climate change, and they are just as real as the financial ones.
While the cost of adaptation to climate change remains significant, it is far less than the cost of the damage caused by inaction. UNCTAD conducted a study of 48 developing economies and found that the cost of adaptation between 2023 and 2030 is estimated at $5.5 trillion, or approximately 18% of the collective GDP of these nations. This translates to about $1,213 per person annually. While this figure is daunting, it’s worth noting that the true cost could be lower, but it is rising quickly. UNEP publishes an annual Adaptation Gap report, and the projected costs for adaptation in developing countries are estimated at $215 billion per year during this decade. However, the financial resources needed to implement adaptation priorities are even higher—estimated at $387 billion annually. The report highlights a critical issue: the adaptation finance needed by developing countries is 10 to 18 times larger than current international public finance flows. These needs have increased by more than 50% since the previous estimate, reflecting how quickly climate impacts are escalating and outpacing our ability to respond, particularly in terms of research and policy.
Finance is an essential component of climate justice, not only because it addresses the financial cost of adaptation but also because it embodies historical responsibility and a collective understanding that combating climate change requires global cooperation. It is about strengthening the weak links in our interconnected world to ensure an unbroken chain of progress. Unfortunately, finance flows have been slow to catch up with the growing demand. The Adaptation Gap report notes that despite these urgent needs, public multilateral and bilateral adaptation finance flows to developing countries actually declined by 15% in 2021, falling to $21 billion. As a result, the adaptation finance gap is now estimated at $194-366 billion per year. The failure to meet these needs has serious implications, particularly for the world’s most vulnerable populations.
More than just the provision of finance, the way that finance is disbursed matters. Simply throwing money at the problem doesn’t lead to meaningful progress. The funds must be used effectively and reach the communities most in need. The World’s Youth for Climate Justice (WYCJ) has endorsed principles for effective finance, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that financial support is both accessible and impactful. It must be directed at addressing the root causes and the most immediate and long-term impacts of climate change, especially in the communities most at risk.
As we continue to confront the pressing challenge of climate change, it’s clear that we must take bold action—both financially and politically—to secure a just and sustainable future for all.