CONFERENCES & EVENTS
CONFERENCES & EVENTS
Youth Climate Diplomacy Forum: Young People at the Center of Climate Diplomacy in Southeastern Europe in Athens, Greece
The event began with an opening address by Natalia Vradi, Head of Operations at YCDF, who presented the Forum’s vision and objectives, emphasizing the importance of creating a sustainable network of young people working in the field of climate diplomacy in the region.
Brief remarks were also given by Eleni Maïstrou, President of the Council of Architectural Heritage at the Elliniki Etairia (Society for the Environment and Cultural Heritage), who spoke on the role of education in addressing climate change, and Theodora Vounidi, co-founder of the Balkan Youth Cooperation, who highlighted the need for inclusion of diverse voices and collaborations across the region.
A panel discussion followed, moderated by political editor Yiannis Anyfantis.
During the discussion, Professor Emmanuella Doussis, UNESCO Chairholder and Professor of International Institutions at NKUA, emphasized that this is the first UNESCO Chair globally to approach climate change from a social sciences perspective. She presented NKUA’s innovative initiatives, such as the integration of climate policy courses, experiential activities in secondary education, and the activation of youth through collaborative networks.
George Dikaios, lecturer at NKUA and Lead Researcher at the UNESCO Chair on Climate Diplomacy, focused on climate diplomacy as a tool of foreign policy, noting that progress requires cooperation among states and pressure from civil society—especially young people—for a transition to clean energy.
Sokratis Vlachakis, expert in Environmental Justice and Climate Change Adaptation at UNICEF, spoke about the importance of youth political participation starting at the local level and presented new initiatives from the organization aimed at involving young people in climate policy design.
Rania Papadopoulou, Chair of YCDF, addressed the paradox of a generation tasked with solving a crisis it did not create. She discussed the challenges youth face, such as brain drain and economic uncertainty, stressing that “our generation is the hope and will overcome the obstacles.”
The discussion concluded with closing remarks from Dimitris Kollias, advisor at the Ministry of Environment and Energy, who expressed his support for YCDF, stating: “The spark in the eyes of the youth when they spoke about this project at COP28 inspired me to contribute meaningfully to the effort.”
The second part of the event was dedicated to networking, offering participants the opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss challenges and solutions, and create new opportunities for cross-border cooperation. The vibrant participation and interaction among organizations, young professionals, and institutions showcased the project’s strong potential and real impact on regional cooperation for climate diplomacy.
Supporters: Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, Flor De Caña, The Sky Spirits Company, Monin, Giannis Kagianni Photography
Media Sponsor: CNN Greece
European Climate Pact Annual Event: Together in Action, Brussels, Belgium
This annual event was a celebration of the progress made towards the goals set in the EU Green Deal and an opportunity to explore possibilities on how sustainability leaders from all around EU (that are aknowledged as Climate Pact Partners and Ambassadors by the EU Commission) can work together to build a climate-neutral and resilient future. Plus, some activities and sessions were organized, to inspire and drive even more climate action. In this context, together with other partner organizations from accross the EU, I organized and was a speaker in the "Youth and children leading climate action: Education for a sustainable future " session, where we discussed about different tools and approaches that can be used to empower children and youth to take active roles in the climate action, while also presenting We4All's environmental program.
EU Green Diplomacy Week
We’re thrilled to announce that the Serbian YCDF Council attended the panel discussion on “Green Jobs, Skills, and Education” during the EU Green Diplomacy Week in Belgrade.
This crucial event brought together experts, policymakers, and youth leaders to address the urgent need for specialized training and education to equip the workforce with green skills and promote sustainable practices. The panel underscored the importance of empowering young people to lead the green transition and drive meaningful change in the Western Balkans.
We extend our gratitude to the EU4Green project and the European Union Delegation to Serbia for organizing this impactful event and fostering collaboration on environmental sustainability. Together, we’re building a greener, more inclusive future for all.
UNICEF Greece & ELIAMEP Report Presentation
The Greek YCDF Council attended the presentation of the groundbreaking report, “Climate Landscape Analysis for Children in Greece: The Effects of Climate Change on Child Well-Being and the Institutional Framework in Greece,” jointly developed by UNICEF Greece and ELIAMEP.
The report sheds light on the profound impact of climate change on children's lives in Greece and examines the existing policies and institutional frameworks addressing these challenges. It serves as a vital call to action for stronger, child-centered climate policies and sustainable development initiatives.
Events like these are a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the most vulnerable—our children—while building resilient communities prepared for the challenges ahead.
A big thank you to George Dikaios-member of the YCDF Advisors Council, UNICEF Greece and ELIAMEP for driving this essential dialogue and providing a platform to explore actionable steps forward. Together, we can create a safer, healthier world for the next generation.
Climate Change Hub Greece
Representatives of the Greek YCDF Council attended the Climate Change Hub Greece working breakfast hosted by the Athens Democracy Forum.
This year's theme emphasized the crucial role of local authorities in climate action. We had a productive discussion with the Minister of Digital Transformation, the VP of the Central Union of Municipalities of Greece and the General Secretary of the Ministry of Interior.
Special thanks to Maria Logotheti and the CC Hub for the opportunity to participate as part of civil society, highlighting the role and responsibility of citizens in guiding local communities toward sustainability.