SB60 Badges: AYICC Offers Accreditation for African Youth

The African Youth Initiative on Climate Change (AYICC) invites African youth climate advocates to apply for badges to attend the UNFCCC SB60 (3–13 June 2024) in Bonn, Germany. These badges provided access to represent African perspectives at this key climate negotiation event. The application deadline was 21 April 2024, but this recap highlights the opportunity for future reference, as similar opportunities may arise for SB62 (16–26 June 2025).

Programme Overview

AYICC offered accreditation for African youth to participate as Observers in the SB60 sessions at the World Conference Center Bonn, engaging in discussions on climate finance, adaptation, and the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG). The badges enabled:

• Access: Entry to Blue Zone sessions, side events, and negotiations.

• Advocacy: Amplifying African youth voices in global climate policy.

• Networking: Connections with activists, policymakers, and experts.

Host Institution: African Youth Initiative on Climate Change (AYICC).
Note: This was a self-funded opportunity; participants covered travel, accommodation, and other expenses.

Eligibility

• Age: Youth (typically 18–35, based on AYICC’s focus).

• Nationality: Open to all African nationals.

• Experience: Active involvement in climate advocacy or related initiatives.

• Commitment: Ability to represent African youth perspectives effectively.

Why It Mattered

SB60 was a pivotal preparatory meeting for COP29, addressing critical issues like climate finance transparency, the Global Goal on Adaptation, and carbon market mechanisms under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. African youth brought essential perspectives on challenges like drought, food insecurity, and equitable funding, influencing outcomes such as the $300 billion annual climate finance pledge by 2035.

Application Process (Closed for SB60)

• Deadline: 21 April 2024, 23:59 GMT.

• Process: Submit an online form via AYICC’s portal, detailing climate advocacy experience and motivation.

• Selection: Based on demonstrated commitment and potential impact.

Looking Ahead: SB62 (16–26 June 2025)

While SB60 applications are closed, AYICC may offer badges for SB62 (16–26 June 2025, Bonn). Interested African youth should monitor AYICC’s website for updates, expected in early 2025, to secure accreditation and represent the continent’s climate priorities.